Choosing Hard Things Doesn't Make Them Easy

Let's be clear. I chose to be a mom. Twice. I know that, you know that, we all know that. What everyone doesn't seem to know though is that choosing to be a mom, or choosing to tackle any other number of challenges, does not make it easier. I don't have some magical power to remain the person I was, accomplish everything I was able to pre-kids, maintain the same energy levels, or levels of cognitive functioning. I'm tired, I'm stretched thin, and I'm keeping track of thousands of things at any given moment.

I'm not complaining about being a mom. Like I said, I chose that, and I love it. It makes me feel a little like a superhero being able to care for so many people in all of these ways, all of the time. I'm 100% certain that I'm fulfilling  bymy purpose doing so. Life's greatest challenges are also the most rewarding.

What I have a hard time with is how unsympathetic people are to others who are moving a little slower, dragging, or expressing the weight of the current challenge they are facing. Why does the choice of the challenge automatically eliminate any grace or understanding given? Why don't we all try showing support instead of frustration?

A bad attitude is a guarunteed way to make someone's day harder, but a little understanding could give them the boost they need to finish the day strong.

In the words of Bréne Brown, " What we don't need in the midst of struggle is shame for being human."

To everyone taking on one of life's greater challenges, whether it's by choice or accident, you've got this! If I can ever get the parts of my mom brain to work together again I will gladly support you, but until then I'll happily buy you pick-me-up coffee when you need it ;)

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