S. Chris Troutt, LMFT

As mothers, I think most of us struggle with how to balance the demands of life; spouse, children, household, jobs, etc.  There are tons of “self help” books and blogs to point us in a direction that will guide our steps to a “more successful life”, yet silently we continue to struggle.  The American dream to “have it all”, has some how translated into I must “be all”.  A feat that is simply impossible.  For perfect peace, the Word calls us to “Be still and know God” Psalms 46:10, this takes discipline in a world that calls us to “go, go, go”.

As a mother to special needs children, “time off” rarely exists.  It is the part that I struggle with the most, to always be “on duty”.  It has nothing to do with loving my children or disliking my job as their mother, it is simply unending.  My desire to “love them well” overrides my desire to “run away”, most days. 😉

So how do we love well and stay the course, when “time off” is not an option?  We must tap into our own “Resiliency”.  I have to find ways to lighten my load when it feels heavy.  As a follower of Christ, my morning quiet time with a cup of coffee, my Bible and a journal, is key to my sanity!  I also look for ways that will remind me that I am not alone in this journey.  One of the most rewarding ways is to reach out to another mother who needs encouragement.  By making the choice to “speak life” into another mother who is discouraged, my load, in turn, is lifted.  And…When all else fails, a soak in a hot bubble bath after everyone is asleep will work every time, even if only for a night.

Be encouraged, you are not alone.

Chris