The Perfect Mom — Does she exist?

“There’s no way to be a perfect mother and a million ways to be a good one.”

Jill Churchill

You’ve likely come across someone who gives the illusion of a perfect mother—she manages everything perfectly, is never ruffled, and has effortless success. But the truth is, she doesn’t exist. She is an illusion, behind which hides another imperfect woman doing her best.

The ideal mother is one who, though tired, wakes up every day with hope and the desire to be better. She cries, gets angry, repeats the same mistakes, falls, but gets up and starts over as often as necessary.

No mother needs to be perfect. This is true for all spheres of life, and especially for motherhood. The truth is that perfect motherhood doesn’t exist. There is no manual that fits all, only excellent materials from which we can learn and adapt to our realities.

Above the idea of perfect motherhood is the mother who recognizes and respects her limits, and who harbors deep admiration for the mother she can be. She loves fiercely and would give her life for her children. A perfect mother is the one marked by the physical and emotional scars conquered during motherhood. She doesn’t give up! Every day, she strives to achieve the best version of herself, trying repeatedly even when she feels she has failed. In other words, the best mother is none other than you.

Being a perfect mom isn’t like following the instructions for a cake recipe; it is to be your best version.

The mother’s Ally

Every day, mothers are bombarded with advice and judgment, to the point where it becomes hard to ignore the increasing doubt that you may be failing this great task of caring for and raising little humans. But there is One who yearns to listen to your cares, to soothe your worried heart. Tell Him all your heartaches and disappointments, and be assured that He will listen and help you be a mother after His own heart.

Your ministry is sublime, and God with His mercy and grace stands beside you as your Helper.

Jesus spoke words of encouragement to the mothers in reference to their work, and, oh, what a relief was thus brought to their minds! His gracious words had removed the burden from their hearts and inspired them with fresh hope and courage. […] Let mothers come to Jesus with their perplexities. […] The gates are open for every mother who would lay her burdens at the Saviour’s feet.

Adventist Home, p. 273-274

Never forget that you are admired, loved, and blessed!

With a warm embrace,

the girls at The Girl Writes