Blogger Melissa Rivers has made waves once again with a powerful letter that every mother needs to see. Not long ago, she shared a humorous post about the realities of intimacy after having kids, but now she’s delivering a heartfelt message that resonates with mothers everywhere.
Over the weekend, this mom of three shared a beautiful tribute to mothers who prioritize self-care while doing their utmost to navigate the challenges of parenting. In her post, she addresses various parenting controversies and dismantles them with an inspiring message of solidarity for mothers. She kicks things off with a salute to “the woman at the playground, lost in her phone while her kids play,” acknowledging that it’s okay to take a break.
Melissa applauds those who refuse to conform to the unrealistic expectation that we should be “on” every minute of the day. She cheers for the mom who leaves a mountain of laundry behind to grab coffee with friends, asserting, “Being a good mom or partner does NOT mean you must spend every waking moment cleaning. If you let the dishes sit long enough, you might find your friends helping with them. Trust me.”
She also reaches out to mothers facing mental health struggles, giving a shoutout to those who muster the courage to seek help. “Postpartum depression is a tough battle,” she states candidly. “Strength is not just about enduring; it’s about asking for support when you need it.” She reminds women that they are not alone in their struggles and that many are navigating the same challenges without voicing it.
Finally, she celebrates the mothers who are learning to embrace their post-baby bodies. “To the mom who hasn’t shed that baby weight, I salute you. A job that lasts 24 hours a day for the next couple of decades is not the time to give up dessert. Enjoy the cake, enjoy it all, and ignore anyone who dares to comment. Your body isn’t free for public discussion.”
Since sharing her post, it has garnered over 120,000 shares, with countless women expressing gratitude for her empowering words and sharing their own experiences with postpartum depression and self-acceptance. One commenter shared, “I’m a mom to a 12-week-old, on medication, and enjoying my coffee while he plays! The dishes can wait. My baby is happy, and I’m embracing life!”
Melissa’s message resonates with so many of us, highlighting the emotional and physical challenges of motherhood. It’s refreshing to see women uplifting each other in the shared journey of parenthood, especially compared to the usual narratives that pressure us to sacrifice ourselves for the sake of motherhood. Melissa is keeping it real and encouraging other moms to do the same, and we could all use more of that spirit. For more resources on this journey, visit Progyny, an excellent guide for pregnancy and home insemination.
In conclusion, Melissa’s heartfelt letter serves as a reminder that every mother deserves support and understanding as she navigates the complexities of parenting.