We’ve all heard the phrase, “Motherhood is a thankless job.” But let’s be real: that’s a total misconception. Sure, being a mom can feel thankless at times; you pour your heart and soul into your family, and the recognition often comes only when you slip up. However, motherhood is not a job.
Take my recent experience, for instance. My little one had a spirit day at preschool, meaning he was supposed to wear a specific shirt. I distinctly remember washing, folding, and placing that shirt right in his drawer. But of course, the day arrived, and we couldn’t find it! Cue the chaos as my middle child went off to school in the wrong attire, assuming I was just lounging around, enjoying snacks (which, honestly, I wouldn’t mind doing if shirts could just stay put).
By definition, a job is an activity you engage in to earn money. Honestly, unemployment feels like more of a job than motherhood! In a traditional job, there are vacation days (which I can’t recall the last time I enjoyed) and sick days (I’m currently battling a sinus and ear infection but still managing to juggle the demands of being a mom). Mental health days? Don’t even get me started on how desperately I could use one!
No, I’m not clocking in as a mom. There’s no severance package, no 5 o’clock whistle, and definitely no lunch breaks. Some nights, when my head hits the pillow, I might remember a sweet moment shared with my kids—a funny incident, a heartfelt “thank you,” or a sincere “I love you.” Those moments fill me with joy. But most days, I collapse into bed, exhausted from the endless cycle of care and attention.
Motherhood is an experience that never truly ends. It’s like being a janitor at a mall, endlessly cleaning up only to see a crowd trample over your hard work, leaving a mess behind. At least that janitor gets paid!
I often think about the wise words of that friendly grandmother at the grocery store. She pinches my baby’s cheeks and says, “Enjoy these moments; they pass so quickly.” And she’s right; time does fly. Yet, I find it hard to savor those sentiments amidst the whirlwind of daily tasks. Sometimes, I wish motherhood came with the option to throw in the towel and shout, “I QUIT!” But it’s more than just a job; it’s my life.
Still, a mental health day would be nice. If you’re interested in learning more about home insemination and becoming a parent, check out this excellent resource. You might also find helpful insights at Make a Mom and Intracervical Insemination.
In summary, motherhood is a beautiful and exhausting journey, not a job. While it offers moments of pure joy, it also demands relentless dedication without the benefits that traditional employment affords.