When I became a mother, my world changed.
Well, actually, to be fair, my world changed during pregnancy. I had to take time off work because I was so, so, very sick 24/7. I was tired and miserable and scarcely functional until I was about 23 weeks along.
But even the physical changes and challenges of pregnancy were nothing compared with what happened when I saw my son for the first time.
Wow. I was responsible for this little person’s survival and health and happiness and success and …
Whew. Talk about overwhelming.
I often hear about the importance of self-care for moms. After all, how can you take care of others unless you are healthy and well cared for, right? But it’s so, so hard in the early months (and years) of a child’s life. It’s like motherhood just zaps the ability to be selfish right out of you. You don’t go out with friends. (You don’t even call people back.) You don’t get facials or haircuts. (Or take showers.)
Yes, becoming a mother was easily the moment in my life that I can say changed me the most — and forever. I love more fiercely. I care more deeply. I value my time in new ways.
For others, an impactful change might be losing a loved one or staring down a serious illness or choosing to start a business or changing careers or making a big move.
What is it for you?
That’s this week’s writing prompt: What was the event (whether you chose it or not) in your life that has changed you the most? And how?
You know the drill. Go write.