Is It Worth It?

By Ashlee Steele Dowdle

As a bonus mama of an incredible, strong willed, creative 8-year-old, AND another boy on the way, life is exhilarating and exhausting. No shortage of highs and lows in the Dowdle household. In particular, Sunday mornings while picking out our clothes, the meltdown begins. In a split second my personality flips from kind and loving, to angry, and back to soft and laughing, again. Thankfully, I do not stay in that negative space for long, but the struggle is real. In those moments, I feel like a hypocrite. Am I exhibiting the fruit of the spirit? The answer is obviously no. The question is, “How do I let the Holy Spirit guide me the next time I am presented with this gift/challenge?”

This article highlights, “It is worth it.” I can tell you that, thankfully, I have those moments, often. When my stepson, Maveryk, belts out a worship song out of nowhere, or he chooses to go in the cold and pass out blankets to the homeless, instead of going to a birthday party; my mommy heart is full. Those moments are indescribable, and I know my prayers are heard. 

As mothers, it is imperative that we are transparent about these struggles and lift each other up. I feel truly blessed to have a community of mamas in my church, where the true love of God is palpable. I know I will not be judged, but rather supported, loved, and guided to practical solutions. We will probably share a good laugh as we exchange stories of our weaker moments. Laughter is the best medicine. 

Nonetheless, I still feel alone in these moments, and I wonder, Will I ever be the kind and peaceful mama I so long to be, in my heart? This article reminds me that the answer is within my community of God-fearing women that I look up to. Thank God we do not all fall short at the same time. Our God given roles as women, wives and/or mamas are that of high honor. Luke 12:48, “To whom much is given, much will be required.” Thank you, God, for this beautiful family you have entrusted to me, and the strength to give myself and other mamas grace. 

The article mentioned is cited here: https://herviewfromhome.com/faith-mom-at-church-its-worth-it/.