Sacrifice

Been thinking recently about an irony of motherhood - that when God generously gives you the desire of your heart - a child - one of the effects is the seemingly inevitable sacrifice of so many other desires. Eg sleep and rest, time to relax and pursue hobbies and friendships, serving in church etc.

Unless you are a 'Super Mum' (and our culture seems to be slowly realising what a myth that is!) it's just not possible to devote as much time to personal interests as it is without young kids.

So fulfilling one desire puts the rest on hold - because looking after a bub means consistently putting someone else's needs before your own - needs that take up most of the day and sometimes, half the night!

I don't think this is a bad thing - it's just the way it is. It can be tough going, but I know that it's in the challenges that God is at work, shaping us into people who reflect His character. And we've got the ultimate example in His son, who not only gave up his personal interests for us, but his life.