Parenthood

MOTHERHOOD

I remember the long weeks of waiting, the anticipation, the preparations and excitment. The thrill of the first movements inside me, until the day of the frantic rush to hospital when anxieties and fears took over with the first signs of pain. Then the pain took over - waves of relentless pain - the wonderful nurses - and more pain! Until that release with a much welcome cry, the first cry!

Then a kind of peace, with a busyness around which had nothing to do with me, until a warm bundle was placed in my arms, then a tremendous love was swelling in my heart, a love that would never go away for the rest of my life.

So this is being a Mum! The birth pains are immediately forgotten and a baby at the breast is a gentle satisfying experience, I believe it is pure relaxation. But then comes the realisation that this new life is completely dependant on YOU and the responsibilities it brings are overwhelming.

Oh it's lovely to walk your baby in its pram so proudly and when you tuck him in his cot to sleep with a loving kiss but the peace is not for long and your priorities have to give way to his demands. A routine can be made with determination but there's always a time when it breaks down and you know that your whole life has changed with motherhood.

Soon he is toddling, exploring and reaching out - the growing years are filled with wonder, achievement and celebrations but with the joys must come sacrifices, always freely given in the building of a loving family. Being a mum is a wonderful, rewarding part of life but the world beckons and all too soon they are gone their separate ways. Your children may need you for a few years but you will need them and their love for the rest of your life.

by Mrs Gladys White

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