Becoming a mother is an experience that takes one from a life of inward focus to that of greater meaning. Suddenly it doesn’t really matter if the windows are spotless and the shelves are dusted. It doesn’t matter whether the laundry room is overflowing or dishes are always done. Instead, becoming a mother teaches one that life is full of much more significant definitions. Minutes that will pass by in an instant, children that grow and change so quickly. Motherhood is learning to draw pictures in the dust, run barefoot in the rain. To laugh uncontrollably, and to love unconditionally. Here is my promise to three little children who have taught me so much, and fill each day with love.

Today I will look right away when you say, “Mommy, watch me!”

I will let you splash in the bathtub until your toes are shriveled and you are ready to get out.

Today I will not hurry you when you show your independence by climbing into the van and into your own seat by yourself. I’ll cheer you on.

I will let you pick out your own clothes, even if they don’t quite match.

I will not scold you for little, unimportant things, like forgetting to pick up your blocks. And I won’t tell you to “go play” when you want to help me cook dinner.

Today I will sit down on the floor and we’ll play with your toys. You can show me how.

I will let you do projects with paint and glitter and tape - even if it makes a mess.

I will read another story when you ask, instead of rushing off to something else.
Today, I will not worry about getting the clothes washed, the dishes done, the floor swept.

Instead, I will spend that time listening to you.

I will take time to really see how your eyes light up when you’re excited, the way your smile comes so natural.

Today, I will not let myself be bothered if you spill your cereal all over the table, and not once will I ask you to, “hurry up.”

I will let you take your time and I will learn to slow down with you.

I will remember that the lessons I learn from you are just as important as anything I can ever teach you.

I will cherish the little moments that make today so beautiful instead of thinking of tomorrow, or next week, or next month.

And tonight, when I check on you before I go to bed, I will linger awhile and just listen to you breathe.

I will notice how your long eyelashes gently curl against your soft, rounded cheeks. How your little arm curls around your blanket, hugging it securely, protectively to your chest.

I will feel the dreams you are dreaming, and believe in them with you.

And I will know that tomorrow I will try to do the same.

This is my promise to you.