New Perspectives

I fear that motherhood in particular, parenthood in general, is undervalued. It sounds cliche. It's been said before, but I understand it on a whole new level. I'm not sure what it will take to make folks understand. It's not that I wanted to be or was trying to be insensitive pre-Avery. I just didn't understand the demands, brain space and mental energy having a child takes. We say that we are family friendly, but our country has a long way to go to really support families.

From health care to parental leaves to childcare we are lacking. I could write for pages about how I had to negotiate with my doctor to have a natural birth. Interventions that are not necessarily good for mom and baby have become standard fare. I know that being in the academy allows me natural breaks that don't exist in corporate settings. After going through the experience, kudos to those who had to go back after 6 weeks. It's not fair but you did what you had to do. As I look into childcare options, I am amazed at how it is equivalent to a second mortgage. No wonder so many people are in debt! I am grateful that I have a career with flexible hours and family nearby, but I know that being a mother will make me look for ways that I can use my power to make the situation better for those behind me.

A friend of mine made this following analogy- or would it be metaphor- yesterday. Mark, it's become a favorite quote, because I think it sums up how parenthood is more than a notion.

"I equate parenthood and family responsibilities to perpetually swimming in the ocean. It's fun, but it's hard work - moreover, it's constant."

So true.