Happiness and Motherhood 5

As goal-oriented as I like to be -- getting lost in the experience of flow -- I cannot always have this type of pleasure as a parent. Interruptions prevent flow via goal-orientation.
So here is secret #5 for a mother's yearning for happiness:
Before frustration sets in, before we feel totally unaccomplished for not being able to make it from A to B in a linear way, we must let go of our goal, at least for the time being, and focus on the flow that is inherent in all life already. Things change, Being is constant flux. Things happen all by themselves. Things swirl, cause other things to swirl, to dance. When I notice the natural flow in and in between all things and beings, I need not produce my own so urgently anymore. As soon as I let go, I can enjoy that what is.

Happiness and Motherhood 4

The worries of others for our children can affect us in a variety of ways. The last blog discusses the importance of being a light to ourselves, of trusting ourselves. It is easy to lose orientation when we are called to discuss our children by well-
meaning people. The discussion usually happens in isolation, away from our peers.

Secret # 4 is, when we discuss our children alone, in a room only with one teacher, for example, or separate from other parents: Do not ever forget that you are sitting in a boat with many, many other parents. You are never alone in your struggles. The Buddha sent out a mother to collect seeds from those who had been spared. The woman came back with no seeds. Do not allow yourself to feel as if your and your child's problem is the only one. We are out there: thousands and millions of mothers who have heard the same thing from a caring teacher, a concerned neighbor, a loving mother-in-law. Keep your perspective. You are in good company.