Guest Blog Post By: Beverly Caldwell
That is such a loaded question.
Motherhood really defined or should I say, “fine-tuned” the person I would become. Although my children are now adults, motherhood is still teaching me today.
Motherhood taught me patience with my children and that if I just stop and understand the rhythms of my children, I could have unique relationships with them. As we know, each child is different in their own unique way.
Motherhood taught me that I am not always right and do not have all the answers, if I am in the “moment” with my children, I will gain so much more than trying to rule or get my way.
Motherhood taught me that I could love BIG.
Motherhood taught me that in many ways, I am lot like my mother no matter how I try to fight it.
Motherhood taught me selflessness.
Motherhood taught me to listen and watch. When you listen, you hear so much more than what your children are saying.
Motherhood taught me to be calm.
Motherhood taught me that there is so much more to life than work and school and all the other things on the fringes. Our children are only little for a little while so don’t miss it.
Motherhood taught me strength, courage and tenacity. To be an advocate for my children and myself. To not accept the “status quo”, and to make changes for the better of all concerned.
Motherhood taught me that sometimes you will not be the popular one but everything you do is to help your children become strong, independent and self-sufficient human beings equipped to make a mark in this world.
As an adult, Motherhood taught me leadership and confidence. It taught me that I do not need anyone’s approval or accolades. If I am the person that God made me to be, that I have to walk in that authority and not conform to what others think I should be. I am an example to my children. Their family of origin comes through me and my husband and if we are not a true representative of who God has made us, how can we expect our children to walk in their truth and confidence in who God made them to be?
I was their first example and window of how life is for them when they were young and that is an awesome responsibility. Even today, I continue to encourage my adult children to be who they are and not who others think they should be. People will come and go in your life, but the one constant in your life is “you”. Know who you are and be that person “on purpose”, with no excuses. Stand strong in your convictions as people will waffle back and forth, not know who to believe and where to go. But, if you know who you are and whose you are, no one can take that away and you will go through life with boldness knowing that you can do all things.
Now that my children are adults, Motherhood taught me friendship, mutual respect, collaboration, confidante, moral support and encouragement. It’s a beautiful thing.
Motherhood gave me so many gifts and I am so honored to be counted among so many outstanding and amazing women who have gone before me, walking along side me and younger moms coming up behind me to pick up the baton and carry it forward. It is the most rewarding and humbling gift I could have ever received.
I thank God for the 3 wonderful children he allowed me the privilege of raising. I am truly grateful.
MAMMA ARIANNA 