I’m the mom who practices daily to gentle parent. I’m also the mom who yells like a maniac after the fourth time of telling the girls we’re running late.

I’m the mom who loses her temper even after swearing I won’t, but I’m also the mom who isn’t afraid to apologize when I do.

I’m the mom who tries to show my children how to live the Church and not just go to the church. I’m also a mom who fails to find time for my own relationship with God.

I’m the mom who will allow almost any kid to come over but is selective about where my kids go.

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I’m the mom who will make cute homemade mom Lunchables and fancy lunches. I’m also the mom who will pack a Lunchable and juice.

I’m the mom who will tell my girls they’re beautiful inside and out while struggling to believe the same about myself.

I’m the mom who will preach to my girls that they are perfect the way they are but will pinch my stomach and judge myself.

I’m the mom who will teach my girls not to talk about others, but sometimes, I have to admit I fail to pull away from those conversations. 

I’m the mom who keeps the whole house spotless because I can’t handle it dirty. I’m also the mom who will nearly cry at the laundry that feels like it will swallow me if I don’t hurry and fold it.

I’m the mom who will make an amazing home-cooked dinner. I’m also the mom who will go through the McDonald’s drive-thru.

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I’m the mom who keeps color-coded calendars and planners. I’m also the mom who still manages to forget activities, appointments, or tasks.

I’m the mom who said I’d never medicate my kids. I’m also the mom who learned that sometimes it’s the best thing you can do.

I’m the mom who swore I would never take anxiety or depression medication. I’m also the mom who relies on that pill every day.

In reality, I’m all these things, and I’m also not all these things. I’m just a mom. A very imperfect mom trying my best to raise wonderful children in this hard world. A mom who wants to live by example to my girls but also accepts that I’m not perfect. God did not make me perfect. God did not make you perfect.

The next time you feel like you’re not as good as that mom, maybe give yourself some grace and remember the moments you are that mom. 

Originally published on the author’s Facebook page