Lately I’ve been making a real effort to take my kids to the park on Shabbos afternoons. I think it’s important that we all get out of the house for a bit- even on those SUPER HOT days.
Not only has it been good for my kids to play with others and let out their abundant energy, but the experience has also been greatly beneficial to me. As I watch my kids I get to connect with the other moms in the park and exchange stories, snacks and a good time.
One thing that most of us Moms have in common is that we all work. Everyone has a different profession and work environment, but we all struggle with balancing all of it- just in different ways.
Since the time between camp and school always poses challenges, I was glad that I wasn’t the only one complaining about it at the park. Compassion from other working moms has really been invaluable. It makes me feel less alone as I navigate life as a working mom. On the one hand I wanted to take off time with my kids, but on the other hand, I really needed to save my vacation days -like for all the rest of the days the kids don’t have school!
We have two full weeks between camp and school this year. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t feel some mom-guilt. I wish I could be with my children during this time! The mom guilt slowly set in until I was strong enough to kick it out. I’m not a bad mom. I’m a working mom. If I stayed home all day then I would be able to plan wonderful trips with my kids and pack them awesome picnic lunches.
But that’s not me. That’s not where I am in life. I cannot compare myself to others. I don’t lead the same life as a stay at home mom, or one who has off for the summer.
So I encourage all of you working moms out there who cannot take off 2 weeks with your kids to not let the mom-guilt in. You are doing what you need to do for your children, even if you are not with them. You are a good mom who knows how to prioritize, even if others don’t agree with how you’re doing it. You know what works for you and don’t have to explain your choices to others.
I wish you all much luck during this hard time!
Until next time,
Shaindy
