Motherhood has been one of the most challenging, yet rewarding things I’ve ever done. Along the way, there have been some quotes that really stuck with me. At different points in time, these words of wisdom offered perspective and comfort when I was “in the thick of it.” Each of these six quotes provides its own unique lesson and point of view. Let’s take a look and you can let me know if there are any that stuck with you.
1. “There is no way to be a perfect mother, but a million ways to be a good one.”
Jill Churchill first said this and I see it quoted in mom groups all the time. Every mother feels pressure to be the “perfect mom.” In today’s world, where social media plays a huge role in our lives, it’s easy to see someone else as “perfect” and yourself as less than. When it comes down to it, good parenting isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about showing up for your kids in ways that really matter.
2. “The days are long, but the years are short.”
“The days are long, but the years are short” is something Gretchen Rubin said that really stuck with me. Some days really seem neverending, especially if you are dealing with tantrums or sick kids. However, the years really seem to fly by. Before you know it you have a one-year-old, two-year-old, and so on. This quote has reminded me about how important it is to slow down and really soak up the small details. Before you know it, your little kids won’t be so little anymore.
3. “Children are not a distraction from more important work. They are the most important work.”
It is believed that C.S. Lewis said this quote, but some people attribute it to Dr. John Trainer as well. No matter who said it, it’s a great reminder about achieving balance in life. It’s really easy to get caught up in all of the “things” in life. Ultimately, my biggest purpose here in this world is to be a mother. My children need my attention to grow into confident people. This quote is a good reminder of where my priorities need to be.
4. “Motherhood: All love begins and ends there.”
Robert Browning’s poetic words capture the profound impact of a mother’s love. The first time you hold your child after giving birth is life-changing. Motherhood becomes an all-encompassing experience of love that changes you forever. It is also the point where your child learns about unconditional love. Every decision you make, every action you take, is rooted in love for your child. It’s a great reminder to keep love at the center of everything you do as a mom.
5. “To be in your children’s memories tomorrow, you have to be in their lives today.”
This quote is often attributed to Barbara Johnson and it serves as a reminder about the importance of being present. I’ve seen many people talk about not remembering any of the gifts they got or things they had. In the end, it is the beautiful memories made that really stick with you through life. It’s easy to prioritize getting things done over quality time, but it is crucial to make sure your presence is felt. This ensures that your children will carry your love and lessons forever.
6. “Your children will become what you are; so be what you want them to be.”
David Bly once said this and it is a powerful reminder that your actions and behavior have a profound impact on your kids. Children learn by example and if you want them to grow up to be a kind, resilient human being, you have to embody these traits yourself. I strive to continually improve myself and model qualities I’d like to see in my kids. Remember, it’s not about being perfect. It’s just about doing the best that you can.
Embracing the Wisdom in Motherhood
Each of these six quotes has spoken to me during my parenting journey. Being a mother is often complicated. There are a lot of challenges, but there is also a lot of joy. Learning to step back, embrace the small moments, and strive to be the best mom I can be has been humbling. There are truly infinite ways to be a great mother and each of these quotes shows that.