The Power of Authenticity in Parenthood
Mamas… can we just get REAL for a moment?
Can we all just pause the cute Facebook posts to be authentic and real? Because when it comes to parenting, isn’t that what we all need? I received an unexpected “gift” on Thanksgiving this year that made me want to say, “we all need more of that!”. And I am not talking about the pumpkin pie and delicious food. As I sat with two amazing young moms, we were able to candidly share all the hard parts of parenting. From the changes that happen to our bodies and emotions, to the areas where many of us carry mom guilt or shame. We sat together, all at different places on our parenting journey, and shared the beautiful and the HARD. There were no masks, no filters or attempts to pretend we had it all together. The beauty of these conversations was that we are all in different places in our parenting journey, so we each had something a little different to contribute. We shared our small victories as well as the darker places where we felt defeat. Here is the thing mamas: we need each other. We need the wisdom from each other that is born through each of our time in the trenches. We need to pull off those masks that we fight so hard to keep on and just show up as we are. There is no better way to connect with other moms than to show up to the conversation with authenticity.
The Importance of Connection
Parenting was never meant to be a solo endeavor. Throughout history, mothers have relied on each other for wisdom, support, and community. In today’s world, where many of us live far from family or feel the pull of competing responsibilities, it’s easy to feel disconnected. But connection is essential—not just for our well-being, but for our children’s. When we lean on each other, we model for our kids what healthy relationships look like. We show them that it’s okay to ask for help, to admit when we’re struggling, and to celebrate our wins together.
An Invitation to Be Real
To all the moms out there: let’s be real with each other. Let’s create a culture of authenticity where we can share both our struggles and our joys without fear of judgment. When we do, we not only strengthen ourselves, but also the community around us. This Thanksgiving, I am thankful for all the mamas who are able to pause their cute Facebook posts to show up to the table in a real and authentic way.