At 20 years old, I entered the sacred covenant of marriage. 

At 22, we welcomed our first baby. At 24, we welcomed our second. And I imagine we will welcome another before my clock strikes 30.

I’ve missed out on girls’ nights out, care-free vacations, family get-togethers, and date nights with my husband. 

Because sometimes kids get sick, you can’t find a sitter, or you plain just don’t have the energy to load everyone up. 

I’ve set aside my own goals in order to focus on raising my children.

RELATED: I’m Not Putting My Dreams On Hold—I’m Holding My Dreams

But being a mother has given me far more than it has taken.

Becoming a mother in my 20s has taught me some invaluable lessons.

It’s taught me to think outside of myself and my own wants, desires, and dreams.

It’s taught me the value of sacrifice and continuing to give even when I think I have nothing left. 

It’s taught me my own strength. 

I’ve earned midnight milk-drink smiles, little chubby arms around my neck, and sharing with my husband the delight of what we’ve made with God’s blessing. 

The honor of watching another person grow, learn, and find joy, is beyond my wildest expectations. 

I can almost see what our family will look like in 5, 10, 20 years. And it could bring happy tears to my eyes.

Becoming a mother has made me a better person.

It’s caused me to think of others and to prioritize kindness because those are the qualities I want my children to remember and model. 

RELATED: The Work You’re Doing Raising Godly Children Matters, Mama

Young motherhood has taught me so much about God. If I, as a mere human, can love my kids on this level, then how much does my Heavenly Father love me? 

Even more. 

So I won’t fret about the missed parties, slowed career, or what the world defines as freedom.

Because my family is an eternal investment and an eternal gift.