Identity Theft-10/11/11

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Few things rock our world, and sense of stability, like becoming a mom. At one time, you were capable of finishing complete sentences, watching an entire episode of What Not To Wear, and making decisions that primarily only affected you. Next thing you know, you are responsible for a wiggly little creature who has no respect for your schedule, needs, and sense of self. You have become "THE MOM" (insert deep booming voice here!). Going to the bathroom with the door closed and showering on a daily basis have been relegated to the list of luxuries. Eating a chocolate bar all by yourself might require a trip to the laundry room.

In your BC (before children) life, you may have identified yourself by your job position, and choosing to stay home with the kiddoes forces us to reevaluate who we are. We can't allow ourselves to be defined by anything other than the way Christ sees us. To use worldly statuses of income, position, success, or appearance leaves us standing on shaky ground.

I have been known to glance in the mirror and not recognize myself. I would think, I used to be funny. I used to be smart. I used to speak in complete sentences and not sigh so much. Where did I go? But, I also know that God is using my kids, all five of them, to shape me into the woman He has in mind for me to be. He will use the kids to reveal what is going on in my heart, things like self-centeredness, pride, and impatience, and help me to deal with them.

And in this season, He will lead me toward a love that is greater than anything I ever experienced. I will feel the joy of watching a little helpless baby grow into their own unique creation, and in that, I will taste a little bit of what He feels for me. And for you.

Practically speaking though, you will thrive in this season if you make sure to get adequate rest. Don't feel guilty if you didn't clean the house because you needed a nap. Take time to do something you enjoy, even if it is just taking five minutes to listen to a song that refreshed you on your ipod. Get outside for some fresh air, even if there is laundry that needs folding. Think of the airplane analogy: you have to put your own air mask on before you can help those around you.

It's ok. You're the mom now.