Let’s face it: we all have moments of judgment. If we’re being honest, we’ve all been that “sanctimommy” silently critiquing other moms, whether we want to admit it or not. Some of us manage to keep our opinions to ourselves better than others, but the truth is, we’ve all wondered:
- What kind of mom allows her kids to have seven hours of screentime?
- What kind of mom leaves her children alone to run errands?
- What kind of mom secretly relishes her kids’ bedtime?
I even judge myself, despite knowing I’m doing my best. It’s a common struggle, whether directed at ourselves or others. Yet we often claim we’d never judge as we perch atop our high horses, channeling our inner Judge Judys.
I remember a time when I was in a fitting room with my two little girls and overheard a mom who was clearly at her wits’ end. She wasn’t whisper-yelling through clenched teeth as I had done in the past. No, she was completely out of patience. I looked at my well-behaved daughters and felt a sense of superiority, thinking I had it all together. Fast forward a few years, and I now find myself in her shoes, dealing with my own strong-willed kids. I get it now; she might have had a tough day, and her moment of frustration didn’t define her as a bad mom.
We all face unique challenges as parents, and understanding that someone could be having a bad moment is where compassion should come into play. Judging others is human, but it’s how we choose to respond to that judgment that matters. Do we use it to gossip about how other moms parent differently, or do we hold ourselves accountable? There’s no one right way to parent. When you shame another parent for their choices, it’s time to rethink your approach.
So here’s my apology to all the moms I’ve judged before. You deserve grace and understanding—two things that are often in short supply for moms. The next time that critical voice pops up, I’ll try to remember to listen with empathy because we all have tough days. Since becoming a mom, I’ve learned that we’re all just trying to find our way and that we can achieve so much more when we lift each other up.
For more insights on motherhood, check out this blog post, and for expert advice on pregnancy, visit this resource. If you’re interested in self insemination, this site offers valuable information.
Summary
In this reflection on motherhood, the author acknowledges the universal tendency to judge fellow moms and emphasizes the importance of compassion and understanding in parenting. By sharing personal experiences and inviting readers to reconsider their judgments, the piece encourages a supportive community where moms can thrive together.