Contentment

I've noticed in the "Blog-o-sphere" that there seems to be a trend in choosing a word that describes what you would like to focus on throughout the year. This year I've thought long and hard about what I wanted my word to be. I was still unsure, until a few weeks ago I picked up this book at the LDS bookstore.

It has been inspiring and uplifting to me. And while reading it, I've come to find my word for the year.

CONTENTMENT

I’d like to share some of the things she shared that have touched me. I have not finished the book yet, but already, it's so inspiring.

Motherhood is a role that we learn- This struck me, for yes, as women, we have innate qualities that help us mother and nurture. But this does not guarantee perfection as mothers, success in our teaching and raising children, nor does it mean that motherhood will be easy. I think I need to write this one above my doorway from our bedroom…:)

Contentment is a Process- I soo believe this one to be true. As we travel on this journey of life, we grow, meet challenges, and continue to learn; ever changing. Why would contentment be any different. A process of choice as we meet each challenge.

Joy in Service – Maria talked about the importance of finding joy in our lives (that there are ways to serve right in front of us: friends, neighbors, family that need service). She believes that we don’t need to “go out and seek fulfillment.” That we should and can find it in our lives.

Motherhood is not a time, but a life-long calling- Oh, I love this one. This particularly applies to women who are not yet mothers. And I think it’s too easy to think, “oh, things will be different when the kiddos have grown…then it will be my time.” Yes, things will definitely be different, but as I watch my mother-in-law. my grandmothers, and my mother: they are still mothering…and will continue to mother. What a blessing to those around them.

The greatest gift to a child is a content mother- This is so true. When I have had challenges, bad moments, bad days, and my kiddos have found me tearing up, I can tell that it worries them. Later, they will come, find my eyes dry, and gratefully proclaim, “you’re ok now momma.” “You are happy.” There are so many ways we can be content. Of course it’s not just the emotions, but it is a choice. Choosing to be content is choosing to have peaceful children.

The mundane acts are the most precious- I truly believe this as well. Reflecting at the end of the day, I usually wonder if I enjoyed those sweet mundane moments as I should. Thank goodness they happen each day. So if I am not satisfied, I can try to improve the following day.

Nothing worthwhile is easy – Goodness. If an Eternal Family really is as incredible as I know it to be, this life is sure not going to be easy. Oh, but it is worth it.