I would have never imagined myself leading a Moms & Babes Group…like, ever! I have always been a secret hater of all things “Mommy Groups or Play Dates.” I guess because I usually saw (not always the case) women competing with one another and using their “expertise” to beat each other up. It never seemed like a good time to me to sit around and talk about your kids pooping schedule or their new trick they do that no baby their age on the planet has ever done or will ever do. I told you, I was a hater. But at least I admit it.
Since becoming a mom 4 years ago, I have learned one thing–Mommy hood is no joke. It is one of the most challenging, awesome, responsibilities one will ever have. I believe that ALL mommies are super mommies. No matter if they work full time, stay at home, drop their kids off at daycare so they can get their nails done (wish I could do that sometimes) if they feed their kids organic foods or if they eat happy meals once a week. No matter what they do, they are super mommies, simply because they carry the name of Mother, Mom, Mommy, Mama or Mum. Since having Jett, I have had many opportunities to hang with other moms. Many, who are first time mommies. I have had countless conversations about the awesome things that come with being a new parent and have also had many conversations of the challenges and the real struggles that we as moms go through. I have found, that no matter what–moms want to do the very best for their kids. So, I decided to lead a Moms & Babes group at our church.
Today was our first hang, it was so much fun! I straight up, arrived to the park in my minivan, with my THREE (oh my goodness) kids, with a diaper bag full of goldfish, gummy bears, grapes and sippy cups! I laughed out loud a bit, because again, I would have never guessed this would be a reality of mine. My kids LOVE the swings, like LOVE them. Lets. Be Honest. I like to go to the park, so that I could relax while they run around. Committing to the whole swing thing, involves me having to do a lot more work than I would like. So, I usually don’t commit to it right away. When it was “swing time,” we realized there were only 2 swings and 4 kids who wanted to play. So, we did what any super mommies would do and we made it happen! We put two kids in each swing, and called it a day! They loved it!! As I saw them laughing and as the handful of mommies gathered around watching, I had a BLOG moment.
Doing life with other people is how we have been designed to “do life.”
Something special happens when we invite others into our lives. It is so much more fun when we choose to share our greatest victories and our deepest fears with others. When you get an authentic look into someone else’s life, you realize that you are not the only crazy person on the planet. I know, that sounds funny, but it’s true. Social Media is awesome, but sometimes it can alienate us and make us feel as though an area of our life isn’t “measuring up.” The very opposite happens when we invite others into our lives. Instead of feeling worse about our parenting or our financial situation, we leave encouraged, knowing that we are not the only ones who face tough times! Of course, I am talking about life-giving relationships and getting around those who want to see you be the very best husband, wife, student, etc. Just wanted to clarify that.
Everyone desires community. Whether you are an introvert or not, no one sets out desiring to be alone. But along the way, whether we have been hurt, betrayed or dumped on, we have put up our guards and not allowed people to get too close. Sharing life with others is risky business and it does make you vulnerable in a lot of ways. I have learned as you are your authentic self, and as you walk in grace, not in judgment, you will attract others just like you. I find that those who are slow to criticize have friends who are the same. People who choose love, often have loving friends. I am grateful for the community of people Jesus has brought into my life. I am even more excited that our church has CityGroups (small groups) that help promote community and give people who would otherwise do life alone, a chance to share their life with others.
I left today so encouraged and so excited!! I loved every moment of my time with other mommies. It’s the only place you can see a human grow a third arm, do crazy tricks with her knee and see a diaper being changed faster than a NASCAR pit crew. I stand amazed and truly honor all mommies across the earth. They have super powers, I really believe it.
So, if you find yourself doing life alone, afraid of opening your life to others, I pray that God would send you a friend, or two. I pray that He would send you people who can be trusted, people who will pray for you and cheer you on as you live this awesome adventure called life!
Every week, I highlight a TRUTH about you, your life, or about a situation you may be facing, and then I DARE you to believe it.
TRUTH: “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.”
DARE: Invite someone along your journey!
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