Hot take: Culture conveys moms as martyrs by packaging the ‘overwhelm’ of child rearing in humor/sarcasm. The default belief being individualism is best and glorified. Truth: My kids cause me to consider my selfishness, core beliefs and desire to glorify my needs on a deep level.

Don’t get me wrong - I love a good sarcastic meme. But, I’m considering what it looks like to choose joy in the tantrums and the spit up and the endless bedtimes. Choosing to find value in and celebrate the mundane as valuable work.

Also choosing honestly. Not fake smiles. Choosing to recognize motherhood as growth and with significance.