Have you recently had the feeling that you just can’t take it anymore? That you must have some quiet time, away from those precious (yet loud) kids of yours?
Probably, you have. And may have felt guilty about craving such time.
Recently I finished a book that helped me not feel so guilty.
A Mother’s Rule of Life (afflink) by Holly Pierlot is about creating an intentional order for your day. I always love reading another mom’s story–seeing what has worked for her and finding snippets of ideas that I can perhaps apply to my own life and home.
The author shares about a time when she reached a point of exhaustion and emotional burnout. She discussed with her husband her need to have time away, which she called her “Mother’s Sabbath.” Together they determined that every other Saturday he would stay with the children to give her time off.
It revolutionized her attitude to her job and her ability to do it both joyfully and effectively.
This was honestly the first time I had read someone advocating that taking regular time off is important for a mom. And therefore, important to the health of the family.
What I’ve read most often in mothering books is that moms must sacrifice–without many breaks, to die to self and be selfless. Which of course we should.
But Holly writes:
“We need to do what we can (when it comes to caring for our whole person) because our psychological and emotional health is essential to the fulfillment of our vocation. We can’t give to others what we don’t have.”
Can I get an Amen!
Do you feel the need for a Mother’s Sabbath as well? Talk to your husband, hire a sitter, swap with a friend, enlist the help of family.
It’s not about running away, it’s about being able to be present–caring for ourselves so we can give the very best care to those in our lives who need it.
Ready for more calm, less guilt, and quiet joy as a mother? Check out my Introverted Moms’ community, and add your name to the waiting list!
