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Contentment: Inspiring Insights for LDS Mothers
“Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great.” —D&C 64:33
Caring for small children or keeping track of teenagers often leaves many women struggling to find contentment in their calling as mothers. In this inspirational text, Maria Covey Cole discusses the importance of gaining perspective on motherhood, shunning comparisons with others, and allowing our natures to be changed through the grace of Christ.
This beautiful book provides a valuable perspective on the trials and joys of raising a family and the noble calling of motherhood by intertwining heartwarming stories, quotes from prophets and Apostles, and numerous scripture verses.
Caring for small children or keeping track of teenagers often leaves many women struggling to find contentment in their calling as mothers. In this inspirational text, Maria Covey Cole discusses the importance of gaining perspective on motherhood, shunning comparisons with others, and allowing our natures to be changed through the grace of Christ.
This beautiful book provides a valuable perspective on the trials and joys of raising a family and the noble calling of motherhood by intertwining heartwarming stories, quotes from prophets and Apostles, and numerous scripture verses.
Hardcover
First published January 1, 2009
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
September 7, 2009
I debated between giving this 4 and 5 stars, if I could I would give it a 4.5. It was exactly what I needed to read right now in many ways and I have often thought on the topic of contentment so was especially excited to see this book's focus on contentment and motherhood. It was a short read (which I appreciated since my attention span with longer drawn-out self-help books grows pretty weary). It had some inspirational stories that helped me consider my role and attitude toward motherhood. I do have to admit that I thought it was kind of odd that she quoted quotes from her father's (Stephen Covey) books, as well as her brother's (I think) rather than from the original source, but maybe that is because she was utilizing concepts they touch on in their books so that seemed most appropriate. Highly recommend for moms.
May 2, 2016
I always beat myself up as a mother. I can't do it all and even when I try, I always fall short. So-and-so is always better at mothering, more creative, more energetic, more talented, etc etc etc.
I loved reading this book, savoring a chapter at a time, because I've realized that I'm not meant to be perfect at it. I realize that I need to reevaluate my priorities and just do the best I can do. I feel more hopeful and more understanding toward motherhood.
Some of the true stories that are shared could have been taken directly from my life and it makes me wonder how many others out there feel the same way. I am not alone! This is a great pick-me-up for any mother looking for some much needed rejuvenation and inspiration.
I loved reading this book, savoring a chapter at a time, because I've realized that I'm not meant to be perfect at it. I realize that I need to reevaluate my priorities and just do the best I can do. I feel more hopeful and more understanding toward motherhood.
Some of the true stories that are shared could have been taken directly from my life and it makes me wonder how many others out there feel the same way. I am not alone! This is a great pick-me-up for any mother looking for some much needed rejuvenation and inspiration.
February 3, 2011
I wish to say without equivocation that a woman will find no greater satisfaction and joy and peace and make no greater contribution to mankind than in being a wise & worthy woman and raising good children.
-Spencer W. Kimball
Contentment comes from being satisfied with "the things which the Lord hath allotted unto me" (Alma 29:3)
It is an inner peace.
The most important moments and the most worthwhile experiences in life are found in the simple routines of a single day.
The 5 C's
comparing, competing, criticizing, complaining, and complacency have reared their ugly heads in an effort to divert me from my divine mission and discourage me from accepting the Lord's guidance.
It seems to be the lot of mankind that we fail to recognize the beauty and worth inherent within each phase of life we pass through.
As daughters of God, when we acknowledge His goodness and mercy in our lives, accept that life is not meant to be easy, and learn that motherhood is, by divine design, difficult and testing, we will truly be content with the things the Lord has allotted to us.
The unique thing about motherhood is that we can literally influence generations. No other job in the world is like that. Society fails to recognize this, however, and so mothers are encouraged to go out into the world and accomplish something to show for themselves.
"There is no role in life more essential and more eternal than that of motherhood" - Elder M. Rusell Ballard
I know who I am, and I know what I am supposed to do. The rest just follows.
Upon publishing her first novel, Jaroldeen Edwards, mother of 12, was interviewed by two attractive and sophisticated New York women, both graduates of prestigious Ivy League schools, and both successful journalists. She said "I was trying to hard to give the appearance of a professional writer, but every few minutes one of my children would pop into the living room with a problem or a question. Finally at the end the cool and sophisticated reporter walked over & sat down next to me. She said she wanted to tell me something. I looked at her very surprised. Very slowly she said, "We were sold a lie".
I asked what she meant & she said "When we went to college, they lied. They told us we were brilliant, that we had the obligation to seek success. To not throw our lives away with husbands and children, but instead to go out into the world and succeed. We were told that only through a professional career could we find ourselves or live a worthwhile life. This morning I realized that it was all a lie. I have come to know that a career is not a life- it is only something you do until you find a life. Life is what you are......
I would trade all my so-called worldly success for one day of living your life."
It is said that "No man on his deathbed wishes he had spent more time at the office".
When a mother truly comprehends the significance of what she does each day and the influence for good she has upon her children, she takes the first step on the pathway to contentment.
It is crucial to focus on our children for the short time we have them with us and to seek, with the help of the Lord, to teach them all we can before they leave our homes.
Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else. -Judy Garland
All the Lord asks of us is to be the best we can be with what we have.
A copy is never as valuable as the original. Each of us is an original made by God, and we diminish ourselves and our Maker when we question our worth. -Spencer W. Kimball
All that is really important is invisible: love, God, air.
When you talk to your child about something important, try sitting side by side rather than face to face. It makes them feel less intimidated & more on the same level.
Good habits are developed in the workshop of our daily lives. It is not in the great moments of test and trial that character is built. That is only when it is displayed. The habits that direct our lives and form our character are fashioned in the often uneventful, commonplace routine of life.
There was a fabulous example in the book of a woman doing too many things, filling up her plate with too many activities & responsibilities, when she just finally caved. The problem was that she was trying to save herself. She was trying to do it all with Jesus Christ as merely the advisor. She understood all of the gospel, but failed to understand why the Savior was called the Savior.
Another great story is of a man that says, "I have sulked, snapped, sneered,& stormed at people. The excuse I always give is that 'it all happened so suddenly; I was caught off guard',
Surely what a man does when he is taken off guard is the best evidence for what sort of man he is.........
For example, if there are rats in the cellar you are most likely to see them if you go in very suddenly. But the suddenness does not create the rats: it only prevents them from hiding.
It is an honor and a privilege to be a mother. I know that raising up a family to the Lord is an essential part of my divine mission and that I can obtain no greater peace, happiness, or satisfaction through any other achievement in life. There is no glory or honor that can equal being the mother of a child well taught and trained so that he or she can return to the presence of our Father in Heaven. This is a choice blessing.
Understanding who our children are and honoring their divine natures is what contentment in motherhood is all about.
Who I am as a human being will make a deep and lasting impression on my children. I can bring peace to my children only when I possess it myself.
We teach what we are.
and I had to include my all time favorite quote (which is saying A LOT because I have journals full of quotes that I like):
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is out light, not our darkness what most frightens us.
We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be?
You are a child of God.
Your playing small does not serve the world.
There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you.
We are all meant to shine, as children do.
We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us.
It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone.
And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same."
-Marianne Williamson
-Spencer W. Kimball
Contentment comes from being satisfied with "the things which the Lord hath allotted unto me" (Alma 29:3)
It is an inner peace.
The most important moments and the most worthwhile experiences in life are found in the simple routines of a single day.
The 5 C's
comparing, competing, criticizing, complaining, and complacency have reared their ugly heads in an effort to divert me from my divine mission and discourage me from accepting the Lord's guidance.
It seems to be the lot of mankind that we fail to recognize the beauty and worth inherent within each phase of life we pass through.
As daughters of God, when we acknowledge His goodness and mercy in our lives, accept that life is not meant to be easy, and learn that motherhood is, by divine design, difficult and testing, we will truly be content with the things the Lord has allotted to us.
The unique thing about motherhood is that we can literally influence generations. No other job in the world is like that. Society fails to recognize this, however, and so mothers are encouraged to go out into the world and accomplish something to show for themselves.
"There is no role in life more essential and more eternal than that of motherhood" - Elder M. Rusell Ballard
I know who I am, and I know what I am supposed to do. The rest just follows.
Upon publishing her first novel, Jaroldeen Edwards, mother of 12, was interviewed by two attractive and sophisticated New York women, both graduates of prestigious Ivy League schools, and both successful journalists. She said "I was trying to hard to give the appearance of a professional writer, but every few minutes one of my children would pop into the living room with a problem or a question. Finally at the end the cool and sophisticated reporter walked over & sat down next to me. She said she wanted to tell me something. I looked at her very surprised. Very slowly she said, "We were sold a lie".
I asked what she meant & she said "When we went to college, they lied. They told us we were brilliant, that we had the obligation to seek success. To not throw our lives away with husbands and children, but instead to go out into the world and succeed. We were told that only through a professional career could we find ourselves or live a worthwhile life. This morning I realized that it was all a lie. I have come to know that a career is not a life- it is only something you do until you find a life. Life is what you are......
I would trade all my so-called worldly success for one day of living your life."
It is said that "No man on his deathbed wishes he had spent more time at the office".
When a mother truly comprehends the significance of what she does each day and the influence for good she has upon her children, she takes the first step on the pathway to contentment.
It is crucial to focus on our children for the short time we have them with us and to seek, with the help of the Lord, to teach them all we can before they leave our homes.
Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else. -Judy Garland
All the Lord asks of us is to be the best we can be with what we have.
A copy is never as valuable as the original. Each of us is an original made by God, and we diminish ourselves and our Maker when we question our worth. -Spencer W. Kimball
All that is really important is invisible: love, God, air.
When you talk to your child about something important, try sitting side by side rather than face to face. It makes them feel less intimidated & more on the same level.
Good habits are developed in the workshop of our daily lives. It is not in the great moments of test and trial that character is built. That is only when it is displayed. The habits that direct our lives and form our character are fashioned in the often uneventful, commonplace routine of life.
There was a fabulous example in the book of a woman doing too many things, filling up her plate with too many activities & responsibilities, when she just finally caved. The problem was that she was trying to save herself. She was trying to do it all with Jesus Christ as merely the advisor. She understood all of the gospel, but failed to understand why the Savior was called the Savior.
Another great story is of a man that says, "I have sulked, snapped, sneered,& stormed at people. The excuse I always give is that 'it all happened so suddenly; I was caught off guard',
Surely what a man does when he is taken off guard is the best evidence for what sort of man he is.........
For example, if there are rats in the cellar you are most likely to see them if you go in very suddenly. But the suddenness does not create the rats: it only prevents them from hiding.
It is an honor and a privilege to be a mother. I know that raising up a family to the Lord is an essential part of my divine mission and that I can obtain no greater peace, happiness, or satisfaction through any other achievement in life. There is no glory or honor that can equal being the mother of a child well taught and trained so that he or she can return to the presence of our Father in Heaven. This is a choice blessing.
Understanding who our children are and honoring their divine natures is what contentment in motherhood is all about.
Who I am as a human being will make a deep and lasting impression on my children. I can bring peace to my children only when I possess it myself.
We teach what we are.
and I had to include my all time favorite quote (which is saying A LOT because I have journals full of quotes that I like):
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is out light, not our darkness what most frightens us.
We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be?
You are a child of God.
Your playing small does not serve the world.
There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you.
We are all meant to shine, as children do.
We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us.
It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone.
And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same."
-Marianne Williamson
January 4, 2010
This is the PERFECT Sunday afternoon read. I couldn't put it down. Usually books like these come across as a little arrogant or "preachy" but this was anything BUT! It was inspiring story after inspiring story, all to motivate me to be more CONTENT in the lot I have been given. Holy cow, it worked! I AM more content after reading this. I am more motivated to try harder and do better as a mother and wife and a child of God. The writing is really great, like this experienced mother is sitting with you in your home sharing stories and insights and being completely empathetic to your plight as mother.
I can't wait to share this book with friends and family. I am busily printing out quote after quote to plaster all over my house. I was truly inspired by this book and I highly recommend it!
I can't wait to share this book with friends and family. I am busily printing out quote after quote to plaster all over my house. I was truly inspired by this book and I highly recommend it!
January 4, 2010
This is a harrowing glimpse into the Cult of Joey. I bought it because I thought it was about LSD mothers, who really shouldn't be taking much of that stuff while pregnant. But it turned out to be about all the mothers in the polygamist cult that Mitt Romney belongs to. A true warning for all who may vote in 2012!
ADDITION: I have since learned that most LDS mothers are also LSD mothers! Who knew? The fact that hard drugs go so perfectly with religionist swill should not be surprising, but it is. All I can say is that LSD mothers should not take the drug when they are pregnant: if they really want to push the thing out while high, that's OK, but morphine may be more comfortable.
ADDITION: I have since learned that most LDS mothers are also LSD mothers! Who knew? The fact that hard drugs go so perfectly with religionist swill should not be surprising, but it is. All I can say is that LSD mothers should not take the drug when they are pregnant: if they really want to push the thing out while high, that's OK, but morphine may be more comfortable.
October 20, 2010
I'm not usually a reader of these kinds of books, but I have to say I was drawn to this one and am so glad I read it. I think it's a must read for every mom. This book was so full of revelation and inspiration for me that I am going to have to buy my own copy and re read it on a regular basis. This book is more than just fluff and fun, but really is full of some great insights and wisdom on how to become more fulfilled not only in our role as a mother but in our own personal lives. It truly is a guide book on how to receive and create contentment within ourselves and in the lives of our families
June 19, 2009
i really loved this book and am sure i'll be returning to it often. it will be a great resource for church talks or lessons. if you don't honor your role as a mother now, you will by the end of chapter one.
i am motivated to be a good mom, to seize the day with my children and try hard to be positive when telling others about motherhood. i am so glad this book was written. i really liked how the author includes quotes from many well known texts such as "Our Town" and talks by LDS leaders to support her themes. a great read!
i am motivated to be a good mom, to seize the day with my children and try hard to be positive when telling others about motherhood. i am so glad this book was written. i really liked how the author includes quotes from many well known texts such as "Our Town" and talks by LDS leaders to support her themes. a great read!
August 21, 2009
This was a very quick and uplifting read. Like many non-general authority LDS authors, Cole's book consisted of prophets' quotes and personal commentary. There was a life-changing moment for me, early on in the book, however. She reviewed the play "Our Town" by Thornton Wilder. It reminded me to enjoy every minute, like the young Emily suggests. (If you don't have time to read this book, just read Pres. Monson's Oct. 2008 General Conference talk, "Joy in the Journey".) And that's my random review on the book. Go read it. You'll be glad you did!
March 2, 2010
I happened upon this book at the library and I am so glad that I picked it up and listened to it, in fact I have listened to it many times now. This book was exactly what I needed to remember about my important role as a mother. Sometimes my days seem so overwhelming and stressful, but with the help of the insight of the author I have been able to reevaluate my priorities and time and lately I have been a much better and happier mother to my children. This is a book I would like to review often.
July 27, 2010
This book was very short, but comforting and thought-provoking too, and Cole has been reading many of my favorite books and articles--she quoted many of them. This is one of those books to pick up periodically and ponder again. I wish I had empty pages for my literature journal to copy down some of my favorite quotes from the book. I'll be revisiting this one again. I especially liked that it wasn't solely aimed at moms of young children--the thoughts were applicable to mothers in any stage of life.
July 1, 2009
I LOVED reading this. It is a simple, but powerful affirmation that motherhood IS important and a reminder of the blessings that come with it. Maria gives many suggestions for ways to find contentment in the role you have chosen. This is a book that focuses on the spiritual and emotional health of the mother. It's not a "How to be a perfect parent or feel guilty if you don't measure up" mothering book like so mnay are. I liked it so much I plan to buy a few copies to give to friends.
July 13, 2010
This book was one that inspires hope and re-direction in the world of motherhood. The way to be content is to Entrust ourselves to God's care, gain perspective, shun comparison and strengthen others, overcoming discontentment, learning to be content, and allowing our natures to be changed through the grace of Christ. I loved the points and appreciated re-learning these topics. I will read this book again, whenever I need a pick me up or to understand the importance of motherhood.
August 13, 2010
This book was given to me by my sister-in-law as I begin this adventure of motherhood. I believe that learning to be content in whatever stage of life we are in is a valuable thing. I think it is important to step back from the day to day routines and really realize the work that I'm doing as a mother. I also liked that the author touched on the importance of mothers continuing to develop their own talents and passions.
January 9, 2012
I liked parts of this book, but it's kind of ironic that it made me feel a bit more inadequate with all the descriptions of all these mothers doing great things. Especially liked the section on gratitude. I did come to the realization that I think my problem is not finding contentment in motherhood, it's more finding motivation to do the things I know I should be doing to help bring that contentment.
April 8, 2016
I loved the premise for this book. I think a big part of our overall happiness is simply finding contentment in what we have. When we focus on our inadequacy, our trials or a our struggles that is where our hearts tend to lie. I love being a mom.
I did find that this book is mostly just a collection of quotes. Not my favorite genre but if that is what you enjoy this is a great little book. A fairly quick read and a great resource for mothers in the middle of "mothering".
I did find that this book is mostly just a collection of quotes. Not my favorite genre but if that is what you enjoy this is a great little book. A fairly quick read and a great resource for mothers in the middle of "mothering".
May 2, 2009
A very well written and researched book on finding and achieving contentment in the divine role of motherhood, from the LDS perspective, but relative to mother's of all walks of life and belief systems. I loved the personal touch of Maria's own expericences raising her childre, made more profound for me because I know her children and what a great family they are.
June 16, 2009
It gave me a different perspective on motherhood. It feels exhausting, hard and thankless alot of the time, but you are serving God's children-clothing the naked, feeding the hungry, healing the sick, etc. We take care of somebody who can't take care of themselves; just very interesting spins on lessons we already know but never considered them a part of being a mother.
June 9, 2009
Loved it. Even though it was written for mothers (and I'm not one yet), I still found it insightful and meaningful. Perhaps my favorite part was all of the excellent insights she relayed from other good writers. I have a dozen or so books and essays I want to go read now because of what the author wrote about them.
February 14, 2011
This book was more like a compilation of quotes from apostles, prophets, scriptures, other LDS books, and even movies. I enjoyed it, but it kind of felt like there wasn't a lot of original thought. However, not all of it can be looked up on Google. There were several anecdotes from her siblings. It just didn't seem like there was much from just her.
March 5, 2011
The hubby picked this up for me when he could see that it was quite clear I wanted to bang my head against a wall. I'm glad he did. This was a short, quiet, tender read. And holy cow if I didn't actually feel content when I finished reading it. So chicks, quit trying to be somebody else, stop comparing to every woman you know, and enjoy the present before it's gone.
June 5, 2013
Really good book with a beautiful message. What could be more important than feeling contentment in my role as mother? I really appreciated the many reminders that were in this book and also some good insights into how we achieve that elusive goal of contentment and joy in mothering and family life.
April 7, 2009
Probably one of the best LDS parenting books I've ever read! So many fabulous inspirational quotes and stories. I'm not one to read books more than once but this is one I will definitely refer to time and time again. Love it!!
June 3, 2009
This is an amazing, very inspirational book. It really made me think about all the little things that do matter, and the things that really don't matter. It really helped with defining what Motherhood really is, and how important a job it is. I recommend this book to all.
June 4, 2009
This was a quick enjoyable read -- there were lots of great quotes and insights about being a mother and the things that matter the most. Good reminders at any time! I find joy in my role as a mother and love that there are so many others that feel the same way!
June 28, 2009
My mother gave me this for my birthday and I didn't think I would like it until I started reading. It had some great thoughts for mothers and how to find contentment in the mothering role. It was a great one for me to read and very helpful.
October 1, 2009
This book helped refresh my joy of motherhood and was just what I needed to remind myself of why I chose to be a stay-home mom. I am glad that I own it because I will probably be reading it again and again throughout the years whenever I need a pick-me-up!
January 2, 2010
This was a great inspirational book to help you understand the importance of being content with your life and with being a mother. The best thing is that it is short, so I actually got to the end of it.
October 22, 2009
This is a nice book that really summed up my own philosophy of Motherhood and learning to find happiness in it. Understanding that the ordinary things of life are indeed capable of raising you to extraordinary contentment and happiness in life.
November 19, 2009
It took me a little to get into, but the 2nd half was superb. I loved its discussion of the value of "mundane" chores, and the balance between acknowledging that happiness doesn't come naturally in motherhood, but it is there for the having.
December 19, 2009
I liked the messages in the book. It was well thought out. It was full of scriptural references and uplifting stories. It was validating and encouraging at the same time. I left reading the book feeling good about myself and about my life. I really do love taking care of my baby.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews