Navigating the Phases of Motherhood
My Journey
As a mid 30 year old woman based in the United States, I've gone through various phases in my life, each influencing my perspective on motherhood. From childhood dreams of a picture-perfect family to grappling with the concept of not having children at all, my journey has been a rollercoaster of emotions and realizations.
When I was a young girl, I had a meticulously planned timeline for becoming a mother. My vision was clear: engagement by 28, marriage by 30, first child at 32, second at 34, and third at 36. However, life has a way of unfolding in unexpected ways. As I approached 30, I realized that my engagement and marriage weren't aligning with my predetermined schedule, casting doubts on the timing of having children.
It was during this period of uncertainty that I thought of the idea of donating my eggs or becoming a surrogate. To my surprise, I discovered that surrogacy required prior experience as a mother, and egg donation was typically limited to women under 28 years old. The ticking of the biological clock became an undeniable reality.
In the midst of these challenges, I experienced a phase where I contemplated whether it was okay not to have children. I looked at the world and questioned whether it was a place where I'd want to raise kids, given its complexities and uncertainties. However, deep within, I couldn't escape the thought: what if my children, or the children of this generation, are destined to be the ones who bring about positive change and challenge the ‘normal’ way of life?
Today, my hope for the future is different. I aspire to raise a tribe of barefoot, free-spirited, and bold little ones. These are the future dragon slayers, the individuals who will shape a world different from the current 'normal.' I genuinely believe that our generation holds the potential to nurture the leaders and innovators of tomorrow, who will pave the way for a brighter future.
Parenting isn't merely about instilling values; it's about teaching our children to think critically, to question, to challenge, and to dream beyond the confines of convention. The future belongs to those who can envision it, adapt to its challenges, and bravely pursue their aspirations.
My journey through the phases of motherhood has been a testament to the ever-changing nature of life and the evolution of one's perspective. While my path may have deviated from the childhood dreams of a rigid timeline, it has led me to a deeper understanding of the profound impact future generations can have on our world. I am determined to be a part of raising children who not only question but also dare to slay the dragons and create a more hopeful and promising future. My hope is to help you on your journey to parenthood with a holistic approach so you too can create little dragon slayers of your own.