AM I A bad mother?

As the snowflakes twirled down from the winter sky, my little one stood hesitantly beside the sled, eyes reflecting a mixture of fascination and fear. The untouched snow-covered landscape beckoned, promising a thrilling adventure. Yet, in that moment, doubt crept in, questioning my role as a mother, as I noticed my little one being somewhat fearful of exploring something new.

"Have I unintentionally instilled fear?" echoed in my thoughts as I wondered if my child's apprehension towards sitting on the sled was somehow connected to my actions. The weight of uncertainty settled, threatening to overshadow the magic of the snowy day.

The snowy landscape became a canvas for introspection as I recalled moments when my child hesitated to embrace the new — the cautious approach to the first snowfall, the careful examination of a snowflake, and the wary glance at the seemingly innocent sled, which I very excitedly borrowed from our friends.

Doubt, like a snowdrift, accumulated. Had my own fears seeped into my child's perception? Was I unknowingly hindering his sense of adventure? The questions threatened to obscure the joy of the moment.

Yet, as I observed my little one, a different path unfolded. Choosing understanding over doubt, I decided to lead by example. Motherhood, I realized, is a shared journey of discovery. Instead of judging the fear, I embraced it.

Kneeling beside the sled, I felt the cold snow beneath my fingers. With a smile, I hopped onto the sled myself.

Motivation replaced doubt as I slid down the snowy slope; while he watched me from the comforts of his father’s arms. The fear dissipated, replaced by a sense of connection. In that snowy moment, I understood that being a mother is not about perfection but about being present, participating, and growing alongside our children. Motherhood is an ongoing journey of resilience and discovery.