I just got back from a baby shower. It was all pretty and pink, and the mother-to-be looked so happy and glowy. (not a real word, I know.) They gave each of us little cards and asked us to write some words of wisdom or blessing for the new future parents. I sat there, just staring at that little piece of paper, wondering what in the world was I going to write? My first thought was to let them know that I am still in survival mode, and good luck! I often feel so under-qualified to give any advice, especially since I am still trying to figure out what to do most of the time. I am still learning in a major way, and I often feel that unless I have it all mastered or figured out, then I have nothing to offer. Then I laughed at myself just a little, and wrote them some blessings that I feel I am in need of every day. 

  I thought a lot about it all on the way home, and realized that we are all still in process in one area or another. All we can really do is just offer each other ourselves; our friendship, our honesty, lots of encouragement, and some of the things we have learned. Come on, let’s be honest. How much do you  actually enjoy talking to someone who is a “super-mom” and has it all together: happy, well-behaved, immaculately dressed children, an always spotless home, three made-from-scratch meals every day, a flat post-baby stomach, a thriving side-business, and a happy husband? (I’d rather poke my eyes out with a rusty fork!) I mean, we all strive for that, but if we actually achieved it, we would be pretty intimidating to everybody else normal out there. (Don’t worry, I am in no danger of that happening any time soon.)

  My point is this: it’s ok to still be learning. It’s ok to have days where we lose it with our children or hubby or both. It’s ok to not always reach the perfection that we so long for-it makes us a little more relate-able, and totally human. I am so grateful to have a family that loves me no matter what, friends who will still be my friend even when I’m not at my best, and a God who loves me just as I am, and is determined to see me overcome. This is a great and complex journey we are on. Life is always moving and changing, and so we always are too. Just be you today. Be ok with who you are and what you have, and always be open to change and growth that will cause you to be even more. I promise you this: we are going to make it!