Sometimes I find myself feeling down about the judgement that moms pass on other moms. We all know it happens. We all know the issues. Natural birth versus medicated birth. Breastfeeding versus formula feeding. Co-sleeping versus sleep training. Purees versus baby led weaning. Immunizations versus delayed or no immunizations. Working versus staying home. And the list goes on. And on, and on, and on. These are only the issues that I’ve come face to face with in my short 15 and a bit months of parenting. I’m sure these things won’t stop once we enter early childhood years, and middle childhood years, and then (gulp), the teen years.
And, let me be straight up here. I’m not innocent. Admittedly, but unfortunately, I am guilty of passing judgements on other mother’s based on the decisions they are making for their children. It’s not cool, but it’s reality. I’m not trying to play off like I’m blameless.
But, there’s another side to the story as well. I’ve had so many experiences lately where I realize that I am so lucky and so blessed to have found myself a place in this community – or mom-munity, perhaps – where I have support, encouragement and friendship with other mothers.
This mom-munity has been blessing me tremendously lately. From excitement and care regarding our next baby being born, to prayers for health when we’ve been sick, to blog friends sending me maternity clothes to borrow and just all around friendship encouragement. A while back I wrote a post about feelings of guilt I’ve struggled with since becoming pregnant with #2, then just last week, I wrote a post about weaning my baby girl. Both raw, honest, difficult posts to write. And the response and support I got through comments, twitter and e-mails? So encouraging. Knowing that all of you other Mamas care about the struggles I’m facing, and that I’m not alone, that you’ve been where I am right now? These things remind me just how wonderful this mom-munity can be.
9 comments:
Smooches.
I think that's what is awesome about the mom-munity. We can disagree; we can even argue. But when it comes down to one of our own NEEDING us, none of that matters. We're all in for whatever that person needs.
Love you, girl.(And, for the record, I think you get such awesome support because you are such an awesome support for the rest of us. Reaping what you sow:)
True. I am thankful for the closeness I have in my "internet friends." Often times, more than I am my "IRL" friends. :)
I can't even begin to say how blessed I am to "know" you!!! I feel so lucky to be able to follow your journey and hopefully be there to help you on this roller coaster of motherhood!!! Hugs friend!! Xo
i found support through my twitter moms like you!
Hugs!
Love you :)
I have found the mom-unity to be very different between having my 12year old and my 17 month old.
Perhaps the less social media influence was the difference because when I had a little baby 12 years ago, I didn't find the judgment as prominent as it is. I found a group of moms locally who were wonderful and exactly what I needed. Now, with Lily, I have a little mom-experience under my belt and have been able to overlook and brush off most of what would have bothered me 12 years ago. :)
I appreciate the moms I've found online (like you.;) ) who are supportive and authentic.
How we decide to raise our children is personal and if we choose to share it publicly, it should be simply that. Sharing.
Love this post, Lindsey!!
xoxox
Very true. I feel so blessed to have met so many amazing moms. YOU are one of them. Thanks for the support!
It's so very nice to be surrounded by amazing moms. Yes, there are judgements at times but really, like you, I've mostly felt an out powering of support.
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