Was: Pain & Presence essay entry

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Excellent points, Molly.

I have three daughters and I often think that the stress I put on myself to be perfect for them hurts them so much more than any of my imperfections. Lets face it, no matter how old we are when we have children we grow up right along side them. It is a true and thoughtful goal to teach your children how to love and be understanding of themselves by example. Thanks for sharing

Very well said, Molly. I love the distiction between "mindful mama" an image of "perfect mama".  right on!

I try to remember this too, Beth--I ask myself, "would I want my own sons to be as mean to themselves as I'm being to myself right now?" The answer is basically always no! I'm not setting a good example by being a perfectionist and by being so intolerant of my own mistakes. At least I've overcome a family habit of saying, "I'm so stupid" or "I hate myself," when I do something wrong. Both my parents say that (about themselves) and I NEVER say either one!

Thanks for reading,

Molly

Thanks, Chasidy!

Molly

Thank you for reminding me this morning that being fully present and authentic in the moment today is the true aspiration of my heart for myself and my children.

This is such a wonderful reminder for me, and reading it I feel blessed to know that I am not the only one!  I notice lately how in my quest to be Perfect Mama I totally lose the moment and end up anxious and worried instead.  You write such a lovely and honest piece here.  Thank you!

Thanks, Brandy!

Best wishes,

Molly

Thank you very much, Iris. I'm glad to read your feedback.

Best wishes,

Molly

Molly, All I can say is WOW! That was an amazing essay. It really spoke to me. I have been struggling with a lot of these concepts lately, and your paper was the 2x4 up the side of the head that I needed. :) THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! And I'm sure that my children will also THANK YOU! Everything you said was very well put. I will be forwarding your essay on to many other mothers. Lynn

Thank you very much, Lynn. I appreciate your feedback!

Best wishes,

Molly