Because & In Spite Of
This is my most favorite photo of my son, Andrew. It seems so long ago when I would wake him up from his naps so that we could go and pick up his big sister from preschool. And before we left the house, he always asked me to put his blanket around him like a cape. He loved wearing makeshift capes ... in case he needed to use his super powers to protect me, I am certain.
And here's one of my favorite photos of Monica. She wanted nothing to do with capes. But pretty dresses with pretty socks and pretty shoes were what she loved. Princess powers were what she regularly channeled ... to beguile and bewilder all who interacted with her.
Andrew and Monica. Monica and Andrew. My princess and my superhero.
After years of being their mother, I've come to know a few things. They are my heart. And there are no others in this world who have made me into a better person than Andrew and Monica. And I'm proud to know that frequently, it is because of me that they have known happiness. But I'm prouder to know that occasionally, it is in spite of me they have also known happiness.
Blessed am I.
How very well said...you expressed what is also in THIS mother's heart...thank you.
Posted by: Nancy Lefko | September 06, 2010 at 01:38 PM
so sweet. I read to my daughter, trying to hold back the tears...I'm sure all moms can relate to this post...so sweet and so true...thanks
Posted by: dawn white | September 06, 2010 at 01:51 PM
Oh sooo true. Yes, the day will come when they realize it's the mostly because of you, that they have known happiness and will continue to know it. :)
Gerri
Posted by: Hopelessly Romantic Art Studio | September 07, 2010 at 04:21 AM
Motherhood is certainly a wonderful journey
Alison
Posted by: Alison Gibbs | September 07, 2010 at 05:14 AM
Oh, this did bring tears to my eyes, just as I often feel weepy and proud when I think of my sons who have grown into wonderful human beings, despite and because of me.
Posted by: Ulrike Hutchins | September 07, 2010 at 06:23 AM
You are truly blessed! I think of children as gifts, they give us so much and make us better people~
This was wonderful; Thank-you for sharing, a piece of your soul~
My cape boy is in college and my pink ballerina just
started high school. We can still revisit those wonderful days, with memories and photos. The magic is always there, when we touch a cornerstone of who we are and what we love!
Posted by: Ellen | September 08, 2010 at 04:58 AM
what tender photos ..to go with your thoughts on motherhood..I can relate !
Posted by: elk | September 08, 2010 at 05:02 AM