Being a Mom in the Midst of a Crisis

For many children, they assume their mothers to be a certain super power, a never-ending source of love, affection and resourcefulness. Mothers are seldom allowed to be uncertain, weak or afraid. During a time of crisis, Mom’s sometimes try to put on a mask and cover their emotions to protect children from being afraid, nervous or worried. We mask our true feelings and instead tell kid’s “everything will be fine” and smile. Mothers sometimes even hold in tears, anger and frustration, all to avoid seeing their child exude similar emotions.

I remember being pregnant with my daughter, and my son was around 5, he was so happy and sweet. I never wanted to see him unhappy. I never wanted him to feel unsafe or uncertain about his future. Yet, I was in a bad space. I found myself in crisis. I didn’t tell anyone, my mask was absolutely flawless and I would wear it for just about everyone.

One day, I went in the room set up for my daughter who was in my womb, and I sat in front of her closet, and cried. I cried and cried while my son was napping. When he woke up, he said “Mommy, you look like you’re sad” at that moment, I couldn’t lie to him, I told him the truth. I told my son that I was sad and I was crying. He hugged me and he said, “I know Mommy, you’re sad a lot”.

No matter how we try to hide or mask, our babies are part of us. They literally lived inside of us! They know when we are hiding and they wonder why we’re not honest with them. My son didn’t know it, but he ignited a strength in me to begin a journey to live in my truth. To stop wearing masks, and begin to be honest about my emotions, my life, my family imperfections.

I hope that during times of crisis, as mom’s, we will all begin to be honest. We can protect our babies from the grusome details of course, but it’s important for their socio-emotional development that we let them know we have feelings too.