That Perfect Mom

Dear Mothers...

Currently, there's a trail of animals making a bee line into my living room from the playroom door. There are tiaras on the floor that I've stepped on...three times I might add. Tiny shoes are scattered through out my kitchen for unknown reasons. The dishes...there's no end. The layer of dust caked on the mantel is starting to mock me. And the quiet activity turned into one of another. Why can't I have everything together? 

We compare ourselves to this lady all the time. That Perfect Mom. The one with the spotless home, healthy meals on the table, arms with zero flab, she makes plenty of time for her and the Lord each day  and has a wardrobe so updated that even the fashion industry becomes envious. We know Somewhere deep down that she doesn't exist, but for reasons unknown we still wake up everyday in strong comparison to her perfection. 


He says, 

"Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."  Isaiah 41:10

There are too many days that I wake up with this goal that is set so high, that I know right off the bat that I won't reach it. That "perfect mom" goal. I try so hard to work for it that I lose sight of who I am as a wife and mother but more so as a Christlike Individual.  What I don't realize is that the woman I'm trying so hard and longing to be is not going to appear....ever. 

God made me who I am for a purpose.

Crazy. 

Adored Wife.

Silly. 

Daughter of Christ. 

 Semi-carefree. 

Little Sister.

Organized at times. 

Loving.

Moma.

Animal lover

...and the list goes on.

 I am not perfect and will never be so. No mom is perfect. No one is perfect. We all have qualities that make us unique. Some may even highlight our weaknesses...but that's imperfection for you. It's normal. It's also normal to want to have everything lined up. No bumps in the road, no page unturned. But don't beat yourself up when you realize that you aren't up for it. Pick up your skirt, step into those rain boots, and plunge through the mud. Have fun with the mess God has given you. You'll probably realize it's more fun than you think.

Remember...

.

• God created us as individuals. He never intended us to be just alike. According to His will, we each have our own prupose in life. We all have strengths and weaknesses..even that "perfect mom." 
• You will be miserable if you running in search of her. You  will never allow yourself to believe that you're capable of living up to who God created you to be...you. So stop, take a seat, talk to God, and accept yourself for the person He created. His child. 
• If there's something in your life that you want to be changed and it's attainable...go for it! If it's outlandish and you know it...let it go. Somethings are meant to stay in the dream box.
• Be the parent God intended. Follow your heart and live according to His scripture. Influences of others will only cloud your judgement. God gave your children you for their Mom, not the lady down the street or the other moms in your playgroup. It was YOU He chose. He'll show you how when you're in doubt and at whits end. I promise!
• We need to learn to let go of the little things that don't matter so we can have the energy to take care of the things that really do.
• Our kids love us for who we are. They learn how to accept themselves as individuals by watching how we accept ourselves. If we doubt our importance and purpose, they will follow our lead and grow up in our shadows of doubt.

I don't and will never have everything together. I will never have my ducks in a row, lined up according to size and color. It's not me.  At the end of the day, the messes that clutter my house will probably still be there. The animal circus may still be in progress. God never promised to make all our discrepancies walk away or magically disappear. He does, however, promise that through His love we will be able open our eyes and heart to the grace we can't see. Like an opportunity to teach our kids a small lesson of responsibility by picking up their toys. *smile* 

We may be weak, but God is strong.  We may be shaky, but God is steadfast and immovable.  We may only start things, but God accomplishes all of His purpose.  “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.”  2 Corinthians 3:18

I pray today that you are able to accept your role for what it is. An honor and true gift from God. Don't wake up with a goal of perfection. Wake up with a goal to simply do and be your best for you and your family, but most importantly, for your God.


"I need you today, Oh Lord. To open my eyes to accept the things around me and find rest in what I see as imperfections in my home and my overall motherly job. Please, dear Lord, fill my heart with grace."  Amen


Love,
Kristen