To my dear children, I want you to know that I am enough.
Every single day, I grapple with the fear that I am not living up to expectations. Am I a good enough mother? A supportive partner? A reliable friend? A successful entrepreneur? With three little ones under five, a laundry mountain that nearly grazes the ceiling, an overflowing inbox of unanswered emails, and a kitchen filled with takeout containers, it’s all too easy to feel overwhelmed.
However, when I catch a glimpse of your joyful faces, my worries begin to dissipate. The love and happiness you radiate remind me that maybe, just maybe, I am enough.
My Eldest
Take my eldest, for example. There are moments when I feel self-conscious about my appearance—my clothes are outdated, my hair remains uncut for months, and my nails are far from presentable. Yet, I see you excitedly trying on my clothes and shoes, beaming at your reflection while saying, “I look pretty like Mama.” To you, I am beautiful enough.
My Spirited Toddler
Then there’s my spirited toddler. Sometimes I worry that I’ve become dull, lacking exciting tales to share. But during a recent visit to your preschool, as you proudly introduced me to your classmates while I spoke about sea turtles, I could see how much you valued the moment. To you, I am interesting enough.
My Youngest
Now, regarding my youngest, I sometimes doubt my toughness. Have I lost my edge? But when I stood my ground against the swim instructor who wanted to dunk you underwater, I felt you relax in my arms as she rolled her eyes and backed off. To you, I am a hero enough.
My Baby
As for you, my baby, sometimes I feel guilty that you came along so soon after your siblings, and that I can’t always give you the same attention. Everything you wear is a hand-me-down, yet when I pull one of those well-loved onesies over your head and tickle your tummy, you giggle with pure bliss. To you, our family is just as it should be; our family is enough.
I often wish my body resembled what it was before motherhood; I’d love to shed that last bit of baby weight. But no matter the chaos around us, when you snuggle into my neck, your eyelids flutter and you drift off to sleep peacefully. To you, I am home.
Our days may not be flawless—there’s stress, mess, tears, and yes, more Cheerios than I care to admit—but perhaps that’s how it’s meant to be. I observe you swinging your feet and laughing over those Cheerios, and it becomes clear that, to my children, I am enough.
And dear mothers out there, you are enough too.
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Summary
This heartfelt letter reflects the struggles and triumphs of motherhood, emphasizing that despite feelings of inadequacy, a mother’s love and presence are what truly matter to her children. The message is clear: we are enough just as we are.