Despite the comparisons, judgments, lack of encouraging words and "advice" I have received since being a mother I have always known that what I'm doing is right. And, by right, I mean what is right for me and my family. In fact, I take deep pride in my family and how we are living our lives. I would also like to think that others share that pride even though we don't share the same values.
It seems to me, from reading articles, blogs, talking to others, that there are groups of mothers who think that what they are doing is the only way and somewhat above others. Whether it be breastfeeding, going to church, feeding their children a vegetarian diet or strict discipline, that this is how it "should" be for everyone. I wonder how much they may be missing out on by not spending time with mothers who don't do things their way.
Through my experience in starting a mother co-op I have been so thrilled to learn things about others. It's not necessarily they way they are raising their children but simply the people that they are. Yes, we have looked to each other for advice and help on solving a problem. However, it is met with a sense of guidance instead of judgment. I think moms need to sometimes step back when it comes to handing out their two cents. When someone is sharing a story about their child it doesn't open the door for how you would do it. Women like to talk and sometimes all we are looking for a a listening ear.
My wish for mothers is that we can lean on each other for support, share our best and worst without judgment, truly lend a helping hand when another is struggling and to not compare and contrast our lives or our children.
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