Sometimes, Motherhood Is Needing To Be *Not* Needed Just For A While

Mar 18, 2019 by apost team

The moment I got into labor I knew that that was my life’s most defining moment. Getting out of the delivery room with my baby safely wrapped in my arms made me forget about the sleepless nights and the pain I had to endure. Even so, that was just the beginning, as years went by and drew me deeper into motherhood; I began to feel as if motherhood was not as fun as I had thought.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s the best feeling to know that your children need you to be their superhuman and pay attention to them at all times. It feels good to be wanted. However, it can also be annoying, especially when you’re about to take a short rest and your child comes running to you, wanting you to play some more with them.

There are moments when I had to sacrifice literally everything for the kids and as much as I’d love to do anything for them, I also need some time to myself to unwind and free myself from all the noise.

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I have a wonderful husband that helps around with the kids more than I could ever ask for. As much as he chips in to help and get things done, for some funny reason, the kids will always wake up in the middle of the night demanding for me. If daddy decides to go see what’s wrong with them, the crying and tantrums only seem to get worse.

There’s no other way around it. If it isn’t me changing the diaper late in the night or even putting the socks on them, there’s no peace for everyone. I love to get my share of appreciation through the cuddles and snuggles. Knowing that I’m the core pillar of their safety whenever they’re faced with worry or fear is the most honorable feeling ever.

Although, this can get to my nerves whenever I want to enjoy a chicken burger all alone or get a few hours of sleep, especially when it’s time for everyone to sleep.

The series of sleepless nights I had to experience was a true test of my faith and patience as a mother. The preface to this very moment was a result of many consecutive nights of battling for my night’s sleep.

Having to wake up and deal with a tag team of two mini-me’s as well as trying to ignore my neighbor’s dog that always seemed to bark every time the kids became uneasy. Ironically, my weekends turned to days of pure exhaustion. Whenever the kids had a rough day, even if daddy was available watching his favorite TV show – legs rested on the coffee table, mom was always the remedy.

On one fateful weekend, dad and the kids came from a busy day of school events, and I knew I had to make a run for it. I don’t understand how they weren’t asleep after a long day full of activities because they were fully awake and energetic after coming back home. This made me retreat to my bedroom, hoping to get some early rest, but you can already guess how the story ended.

Actually, the story didn’t even end there, I remember the kids storming into my bedroom asking for my help. This time I tried to get daddy to draw their attention in the living room as I quietly sneaked back into my bed.

It didn’t even take me long enough to fall asleep, but I was brought back to my full senses when my son continuously tagged on my duvet. This time I gathered the last strength I possibly had and left my bed to go make him his favorite peanut butter sandwich. Of course, once my daughter heard the clanging of spoons, she immediately came demanding for her share.

I was devastated and running on critical power trying not to get any peanut butter on my hands, I managed to get some sleep upstairs in the attic which is reserved for guests. Just as I thought this might actually be the night I get to redeem myself, I remember dreaming of a screaming baby that came running towards me at full speed. Opening my eyes, there he was again, and this was the moment I lost it.

I clenched onto the blanket, walked downstairs and shouted at the three people I treasure the most, “Why won’t you let me get some rest!”

As a mother, you need some rest despite your desire to do more for your family and make sure that your kids don’t lack anything. The rest will help you to recover some of that energy and clear your mind.

Therefore, talk to your partner and see how he or she can help you get the much needed alone time, especially if you have kids.

Do whatever you must! Let us know your way to escape in the comments and don't forget to pass this along to your friends and family to see what they think, too.