When you embark on a journey to become a doctor, you take the Hippocratic Oath, promising to uphold the integrity of the medical profession. If you assume the role of President, you pledge allegiance through the Oath of Office. Yet, when you step into motherhood, there’s no formal vow—no commitment, no promise, nothing. This needs to change. To navigate the wild ride of motherhood, it’s essential to establish some ground rules. Thus, I present to you… The Motherhood Manifesto.
My Vows
I vow to honor the hard-earned wisdom of those mothers who have come before me and to generously share my insights with those who follow—if they seek it. Otherwise, I’ll keep my thoughts to myself.
I will do everything in my power to support my child’s health. But when they stumble, I won’t panic. Instead, I’ll encourage them to bounce back. I refuse to raise a child who throws a tantrum at the slightest discomfort, causing all other moms to cringe.
I won’t hesitate to admit, “I don’t know.” On those tough days when everything feels overwhelming, I will reach out for help. I don’t need to shoulder the weight of the world alone.
I will respect the boundaries of my fellow mothers. If they choose to keep their secrets, I won’t pry. But if they confide in me, I will guard their secrets fiercely.
I’ll strive to eliminate feelings of inadequacy. If I whip up a lunch made of kale, pomegranates, and quinoa that resembles a cartoon character, I won’t post it online. And if my kids actually eat that wholesome meal, I’ll be honest and admit they really devoured Goldfish and soda instead.
I will remember that I am part of a community with responsibilities towards my fellow mothers. If I notice an unsightly hair on another mom’s neck, I will kindly point it out. And if I have tweezers handy, I’ll offer them up right away.
If I uphold this manifesto, may I enjoy life and earn a place within the tribe, respected in my journey and fondly remembered. May I always strive to uphold the cherished traditions of motherhood.
Further Reading
For more insights into the journey of motherhood, check out this informative post on intracervicalinsemination. If you’re considering home insemination, Cryobaby offers excellent resources. Additionally, the NICHD provides valuable information on pregnancy and home insemination.
Conclusion
In summary, the Motherhood Manifesto outlines a commitment to support and uplift one another while fostering resilience in our children. By sharing knowledge and respecting each other’s journeys, we can navigate the complexities of motherhood together.