As I reflect on nearly a year since welcoming our little bundle of joy, it feels both surreal and fleeting. Time has this peculiar ability to stretch and compress all at once. Some days seem to drag on forever, yet the months have flown by in a heartbeat. This past year has been a whirlwind filled with love, laughter, exhaustion, sleepless nights, tears, and immense gratitude, creating some of the most memorable moments of our lives.
As we prepare to celebrate Ava’s first birthday, I find myself reminiscing about our journey together. I know that during this crucial first year, babies form their understanding of the world, determining if it’s a safe and friendly place. This makes me ponder whether I’ve done my best for her, providing everything she needs and imparting the lessons she should learn. Ultimately, though, it’s clear that we are the ones learning from her.
Here are the invaluable lessons my one-year-old daughter has taught me in our first year together:
1. Embrace the Full Spectrum of Emotions.
It’s perfectly fine to laugh until you cry and cry until you laugh. Every emotion is valid. If you’ve ever heard a baby cry, you know it can be heart-wrenching. Fortunately, in those early months, sadness isn’t fully grasped; babies can switch from tears to giggles in an instant. Witnessing her navigate through emotions—both positive and negative—without the filters that adults often apply has been a refreshing reminder. We should allow ourselves to feel all emotions, including anger and sadness, instead of shutting them down as we often do in adulthood.
2. Live in the Present Moment.
Babies don’t dwell on the past or fret about the future. They react to the present moment, finding joy in the here and now. As a new mom, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by anxiety and the endless to-do lists. However, when I take a moment to play with Ava, I am reminded of the beauty in each passing moment. She doesn’t worry about what’s next; she focuses on what is right in front of her, teaching me the value of being present.
3. Find Joy in the Little Things.
Before Ava, I worried I wouldn’t have the patience to engage in repetitive play. Surprisingly, I find joy in our daily rituals—pointing out trees, smelling flowers, and enjoying the world through her eyes. She appreciates the smallest wonders, from blooming flowers to the tiniest bugs. In teaching her gratitude, she has shown me just how much there is to be thankful for.
4. Perseverance is Key.
Have you ever seen a baby give up? They may get frustrated while learning to crawl or walk, but they never truly stop trying. Their determination is inspiring, and it serves as a powerful lesson in resilience. Babies keep pushing forward, and eventually, they achieve those milestones, reminding us of the importance of persistence.
5. Prioritize Connection Over Chores.
Household tasks can wait. Your baby doesn’t care if the laundry is folded or if the floors are spotless. What matters most is your presence. Before becoming a mom, I thought I was busy; now I understand the true meaning of being busy. It’s crucial to prioritize what truly matters—play, laughter, and cuddles—over the seemingly endless list of chores.
6. Love is Innate.
From the moment we are born, we embody love. Babies instinctively seek warmth, affection, and security, demonstrating a natural tendency to connect. They don’t hold grudges; they express their emotions freely. This openness is a stark contrast to the guardedness we develop as adults, teaching us that we should embrace love and connection without hesitation.
As I reflect on these lessons, it’s clear that our little ones come into this world not just for us to teach them, but for them to impart valuable lessons upon us.
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In summary, my first year as a mother has been a profound journey filled with lessons that have reshaped my understanding of love, presence, and the beauty of life. Through Ava’s eyes, I’ve learned to embrace emotions, live in the moment, and cherish the simple joys that life offers.