I’m the mother of a 2 children, ages 10 and 7. They are the light in my days as well as the struggle of my days. They could not be more polar opposites. Their storms rage against each other often and upset the balance I try to keep to feel I'm doing things "right." This is the beginnings of the "perfection infection," trying to make things line up perfectly in a row to validate my mothering skills. The "perfection infection" is everywhere! Its probably one of the most contagious illnesses a mom can contract. It can get you at any age or stage. It can come and go again and again. Thank you, Jill Savage, for writing a book. Thank you for the encouragement and lessons within these pages. Each chapter is like a breath of fresh air.
"Feelings breathe, they are fluid, and they don't always tell us the truth." -- Chapter 5, "No More Perfect Marriages"
I think one of my favorite ideas presented is something we all do and never really realized how incorrect it was. When you look at facebook, pinterest, Christmas letters and think how perfect that family looks -- what you are seeing is their outsides. Its a parade of their best. And who wouldn't want to brag now and then? But I'm comparing it to my insides. I must face my internal struggles daily, the difficulties I have with cooking, keeping a clean house, etc., and its not something I would post on facebook or in a Christmas letter. So why am I comparing my internal difficulties to other people's external photographs? What a truth to latch on to and unlock so much stress.
"Confidence comes from defining ourselves as God sees us: forgiven, loved, valuable, and filled with hope and promise. We're not perfect, but we are in the process of being perfected... Carry your God'fidence with you..." -- Chapter 6,"No More Perfect Friends"
This book points out how beautiful and messy motherhood is. But it also forces you to look inside yourself and the wrong things you do as well. From judging other moms to not forgiving our own mistakes. This book is like a warm hug letting you know its okay. When we re-focus and see our struggles in a different light, then we can actually see gifts God is giving us each day. He is building us up, bringing us closer to him, and longing to direct our steps. This book reminds us to trust God.
"We need perspective that the moment we are in is just as important as the moment we planned on that didn't happen the way we thought it would... When we don't value the moment we are in as much as the one we planned, we'll miss out on precious time with those we love." -- Chapter 7,"No More Perfect Days"
This book not only gives confidence but also helpful tips. It doesn't end with a "ready, set, go!" Its gives you a springboard to keep building up her advice. From becoming a "yes" mom to changing those unrealistic expectations into realistic hopes to accepting the reality of my life. Mrs. Savage even includes helpful appendices to remind us how God sees us and to show us places in the Bible we can turn to when we're feeling all different emotions. Feeling defeated, depressed, guilty, worthless? God has something to say about that, and Mrs. Savage gives you the keys to open those doors.
"We are on a journey to make peace with real life." -- Chapter 8, "No More Perfect Homes"
So where am I going from here? I'm going to lose my pride, fear, judgement, comparisons, agendas, and performances. I'm going to be honest, change my expectations, and combat this infection with humility, confidence, and grace. None of us are alone. We are among friends!