it's a privelage, really

i had hoped to post this yesterday for mother's day, but with all the festivities yesterday it didn't happen. however, the thoughts were some that i wanted to hang onto for this time of my life.

"recognize that the joy of motherhood comes in moments. There will be hard times and frustrating times. But amid the challenges, there are shining moments of joy and satisfaction." Elder M. Russell Ballard

this has been the thought of the day for me. i must admit that i had convinced myself after the arrival of my 1st that every moment would joyful and full; if not, i was certain i could force it to be that way. without a doubt, 3 1/2 years into it, i've learned that every moment is not joyful and no amount of forcing could make the endless hours of devotion to another human's care always be enjoyable. however, what i have learned is that my attitude about it could be joyful (or at least an attempt at it!). so far in this journey i have had many fleeting moments that have reminded that while motherhood can be hard and frustrating, it really is such a privilege.
it is a privilege to rock a child to sleep for the 4th time at 2:00 am; it is a privilege to be needed like that.
it is a privilege it to discipline a child over and over again; it is a privilege to have that kind of influence on your child's moral development and disposition.
it is a privilege to prepare healthy meals for my family even if i have the mess to clean up in the end; it is a privilege to have such an important role in their physical health and habits.
it is a privilege to have 20 messes to clean up in a day, every day; it is a privilege for little minds to have the opportunity to experiment and learn.
it is a privilege to be home day after day, doing the same things over and over again with little validation or recognition; it is a privilege to be home with these kids and be the main influence in their lives.

motherhood is a privilege that i would never trade for all the other privileges this world could offer.