Moms, have we forgotten how to love?

Its so crazy that when we become a mom how basic spiritual truths (we once had waxed when we were single or married) suddenly become murky and seem somewhat far fetched. We know what the bible says about loving others “Love your neighbour as you love yourself”. (Matthew 22:39). We love everyone around us… but do we love ourselves?

# We used too!

For the most part of our lives before becoming a mother- we did love ourselves! We finished our studies, pursued our careers and hobbies. We went to gym, took that art class, put on a facial mask at home, ate healthily (well kind of). Then we start bringing these precious beings into the world and its like we’ve hit the “PAUSE” button on our own sense of identity and worth.

# And then…

All of sudden our every thought and action is consumed by our kids as well as most of our decision making. Now don’t get me wrong, I whole heartedly agree that when our babies are born they become our priority! This is completely natural, normal and good. We fall head over heels in love with them and make them the centre of our lives. This however can slowly become unhealthy and dysfunctional if we start “disappearing in the process.” You are still there in the physical of course but what happened to that young twenty year old who had dreams and aspirations? The one who wanted to change the world or write amazing songs and books.

The truth is that we start to subconsciously undervalue the things that we once held dear, the things that make us tick and essentially make up who we are. We start neglecting ourselves and our emotional and spiritual growth. We skip going to gym, eating balanced meals, playing that instrument, spending quiet time in HIS word. And we have legitimate excuses for everything: There’s no time, not enough money …and so on goes the list.

# Lets stop and ask ourselves “Am I loving myself well?” “Am I happy with the woman I now face in the mirror?” would we be happy with the answer?

“Becoming a mother is meant to add value to who we are- not replace it.”

# Truth.

The bible says we need to love God first with all of our hearts. Then we need to love ourselves! (Yes this means before our hubby’s and children) and then only to love others according to how well we love ourselves. It may seem so upside down yet this is a spiritual truth that if we reapply it to our lives we will have healthier relationships, wholeness and fulfilment.

# Do it!

Make it your goal to start loving yourself better! What would that look like? What would you love to do (for yourself) if you had the time, energy and money? Then do it or at least makes steps towards it. God wants you to start loving yourself the way he loves you. Once we become healthy and whole once again within ourselves – SO will our love for our families and others!