I typically don't sit around lamenting my difficult life. I really don't. But I'd be lying if I didn't admit that at times I feel a bit under-appreciated. It goes with the title of being mom though, so really, I'm okay with it. As a matter of fact, I've become quite used to being invisible, and with a whole lot of prayers for help from the Blessed Mother, and the Holy Spirit...I can go about my day trying to give my best anyway.
It so happened the other night that I baked fish for supper (which John had been hinting about for days). Unfortunately we had no tarter sauce in the house, so I made some from scratch...simple mayo, chopped pickles...nothing special. Anyhow, the kids threw a big fuss about dinner (as is often the case when feeding toddlers, right? Please tell me I'm not alone on this.) Unfortunately a lot went to waste, 'cause leftover fish is just blech! As I was clearing the dinner table, John mentioned the tarter sauce. He had noticed it was homemade, and that I probably had to chop the pickles, cause he knew there was no relish in the fridge. Anyways, long story short...he said something to the effect of "Nobody here really realizes that dinners don't just fall on the table. You put a lot of effort into feeding everyone 3 times a day, don't you." (no duh.) The conversation pretty much ended there, but it was enough to make me aware that A. he notices (how sweet is that?!) and B. I'm okay with the fact that my kids don't notice. Oh sure, those precious moments when one of them says "thanks mom" or "this is delicious" or even a grubby little thumbs up my direction is nice, but not necessary. I keep reminding myself that one day these kids aren't going to be here...no little ones to bathe, or cook for, or help dress, or teach or read with, or pray with. Someday, silence will prevail. For now, I must find joy in the doing for, in the being with, in the sharing of all that I have to offer. I think I've mentioned before (and need to remind myelf once and again too) that it is in our daily service to our family, that we are honoring God in our true vocation as wives/mothers. May our days work become a form of prayer when done out of love. peace.
