As I am on the look back side of things, here is my wish for you:
Love yourself, not just today, but everyday.
When you botch it--which you will--take a moment in front of a mirror and say out loud, "I forgive myself." Then no voice can tempt you to endlessly replay your mistake.
Love yourself even when you know you've made a mess of things.
When you nail it--and you will--take a moment and thank God for that spoonful of sturdy that you can add to your skillset. Grow in sturdy for the days ahead.
Love yourself with thanks when you get it right.
I am surrounded by an incredible group of young moms. The most beautiful part of their joint journey is their humility and encouragement with each other. No one has it right, but they all have victories they celebrate together.
No one has it wrong either--so they pick each other up, dust each other off, and move forward...together.
The sisterhood of young motherhood is a God creation that is simply stunning for its energy, camaraderie, and compassion.
You would never, for a moment, want your children to live in doubt of who they are, wonderfully and fearfully made in God. You are their model for growing into that.
Why you more than dads? Because you have thousands more words per day and as women, we are brutal toward ourselves with some of those words. That is not unnoticed by little eyes and ears.
Today, yes, sweet things will happen. But what I care about more is that you help each other protect your greatest strength for the years ahead...cultivating a genuine love and acceptance of who you are. Your children will love themselves as you love yourself.
You, will, by loving yourself well, reveal to your children the very image of God--unconditional love not just for your family but for yourself.
Comments are welcome at feedyourstrength.com.
