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| How Does Your 'Garden' Grow? Why Moms Should Keep Their 'Watering Cans' Full by Mary DeMent All eyes were on Linda. She found herself involved in a small group discussing personal strengths and abilities. Her eyes fixed down at her lap, hands clasped, she said, “You know, I’m not really sure what my gifts or talents are anymore.” Stunned, her husband of more than 20 years turned toward her in disbelief and said, “Really?” Even he was not aware of her feelings. Sometimes as moms, we spend so much time nurturing our children that we lose sight of ourselves, our needs. In the process of raising our children, we lower ourselves. Our husband’s and our children’s needs rise, while ours sink. And sometimes, that is exactly how we may feel, as if we are drowning. Like Linda, we don’t know or remember who we are or what we are good at. Each new need, activity or event pushes us further from the surface. After I’ve experienced several hectic days, my husband jokingly greets me by saying, “And what was your name again?” I usually offer a smile and say, “I don’t know; you tell me!” Life can be all-consuming sometimes. And as mothers, we are all the more consumed! Mounds of laundry, dirty dishes, shopping, planning, preparing and serving meals, school activities, sports, wiping counters, mouths and bottoms … A mother’s to-do list is endless! It’s true; we have a responsibility to care for our families. However, if we ignore our needs, if we fail to take care of ourselves, we fail to take care of our families. I once heard motherhood compared to a watering can. As the water (of our lives) pours out of the can onto the flowers (our family), they flourish and grow. But once the can is empty, the flowers begin to whither and eventually die. It is important that we keep our “watering can” full. Our little “flower garden” depends on it! Take a moment to think of ways to fill your can, yourself back up. It could be as lavish as a weekend getaway or as simple as lunch with a friend or a walk—without pushing a stroller, pulling a wagon or holding a child’s hand. I can hear you already. “Oh, wouldn’t that be nice?” “What planet is this woman on?” “I don’t have the finances to go away or pay a babysitter.” “I don’t have family here that can help out.” “My husband works late.” Okay, mom, this is when you have to dig down deep and get creative!
You get the idea. God designed what He called a “Sabbath,” a day of rest. Even God rested. I encourage you to follow the master Parent’s lead. Add a “Sabbath,” time for mom, to your to-do list each week. You will benefit, and so will your family. Mary DeMent is a freelance writer and stay-at-home mom. She lives in Orlando, Florida, with her husband, Bill, and their four children, ages 9, 7, 5 and 2. She holds a master’s degree in clinical social work. You might find her positioned at Niagara Falls with her watering can. What ideas do you have for enjoying a “Sabbath” from the demands of motherhood? | Top | Share Your Thoughts... Be the first to comment on this article! |
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