Career: MOM

Many times, I find myself writing during “hard” or challenging periods in life. It’s a way I release some of the frustration and see the humor involved. But on occasion, I feel such an overwhelming sense of gratitude for my calling of motherhood, that I want to record my feelings for my posterity’s sake. For my children to know later in life, what a blessing and joy they have been to me.


I have been an official mother for almost a decade. And whereas this position was not one I thought I aspired to, it is the one position in life that has caused the most change and growth for good than any other I have experienced. I attended Women’s Conference in Denver, Colorado last spring and Mark Mabry was one of the speakers. He shared his experience how “Reflections of Christ” came about and the changes he went through to be prepared for such a project. He said, “Honest truth, I didn’t even like photography. I just knew I was suppose to be a photographer.” I had a knee jerk reaction and turned to my neighbor and whispered in a voice louder than I had intended, “I didn’t even like motherhood. I just knew I was suppose to be a mother.”

In my earlier mothering years, I often rationalized that everyone does not become an accountant, or an attorney, or a construction worker. Everyone is drawn to where their interests lie and they pursue that as a career. Many times, altering their course along the way. Yet, half of the population has the ability to be a mother. I don’t know what the statistics are for those that actually become mothers, but I’m sure it’s more than had plans to. How did I get “thrown” into this career when my interests lie elsewhere? For many people, if they do not like their job or profession, they CHANGE. Professions that is.

What I realized, somewhat by accident and mostly by divine intervention, is that if I wanted to enjoy my mothering profession, CHANGE was involved. But it was me that had to change, because I couldn’t leave my profession, even if I tried. And many days I wanted to do just that.

I now have four children and am halfway through the pregnancy of the fifth. I marvel at how much I enjoy my young ones more than the first two. I love to see their development – their learning and growth. I use to feel bad, that maybe the first two got cheated, but really they helped me get to where I’m at – and vice versa. I’m a better mom. One who enjoys her calling more days than I did before, and I have my children to thank. To push me to my limits and be more than I thought possible.

The challenges have not gone away, nor have the messes, tantrums, or sleepless nights. But there is some familiarity in the moments and I know that “this too shall pass.” At times I still cry with overwhelment. And occasionally I escape for moments from the madness just to feel sane and recharge my batteries.

As Mother’s Day approaches, I reflect more on the mothers in my life and I am grateful for their service and love for me. Although I know I was a challenge for my mom at such a young age, I didn’t know how we were helping each other to grow. My child mind did not think in those terms. But my adult mind today can see her sacrifice and endless hours of service that she gave in my behalf. And continues to give. For that, I am grateful. I’m especially thankful for her example to go through the motions when that’s all the energy she had. Because some days are just that…going through the motions. But she did it for her kids and I know I can too. In the thankless moments of motherhood, my heart is turned towards my mom, and grandmother, and her mother. Thank you mom.

With little ones, the expression of appreciation rarely comes in the form of “Thank You.” Occasionally a hug, or a smile, or even a “love you” will suffice, but the recognition that a mom has gone above and beyond is unnoticed. After all, that’s their job, isn’t it?

That is why I thought Sister Beck’s talk from the recent LDS General Conference address, “And upon the Handmaids in Those Days Will I Pour Out My Spirit,” was so great. She teaches how in an underappreciated career, we should measure our success.

“Good women always have a desire to know if they are succeeding. In a world where the measures of success are often distorted, it is important to seek appreciation and affirmation from proper sources. To paraphrase a list found in Preach My Gospel, we are doing well when we develop attributes of Christ and strive to obey His gospel with exactness. We are doing well when we seek to improve ourselves and do our best. We are doing well when we increase faith and personal righteousness, strengthen families and homes, and seek out and help others who are in need. We know we are successful if we live so that we qualify for, receive, and know how to follow the Spirit. When we have done our very best, we may still experience disappointments, but we will not be disappointed in ourselves. We can feel certain that the Lord is pleased when we feel the Spirit working through us. Peace, joy, and hope are available to those who measure success properly.”

I was also touched by her acknowledgement of the day and age we live today - rushed, hurried, and busied. Our hearts may be in the right place, but there are only so many hours in the day to be SUPERMOM.

“A good woman knows that she does not have enough time, energy, or opportunity to take care of all of the people or do all of the worthy things her heart yearns to do. Life is not calm for most women, and each day seems to require the accomplishment of a million things, most of which are important. But with personal revelation, she can prioritize correctly and navigate this life confidently.”

So, in a quiet moment of peace, I feel the joy and contentment of motherhood. I feel the hope of a bright future. I feel love for my Heavenly Father for entrusting me with His precious children. I am grateful for Audrey, Corbin, Drew, Jake, and whoever else shows up for this adventure. I have the best job in the world.