“You don’t grow up until someone is more important than you” My Lord that is so true!

Being a mother highlighted all of my shortcomings and strengths, reordered all of my priorities, made me care less and yet more about myself, and completely changed how I view the world. Thank God for the privilege of being a mother to three amazing humans.

The level of sacrifice has risen to an unhealthy place. Women try to do too much…working full time, caring for the kids and home with little help leaves nothing for the mom to nurture herself…so she tries to pour from an empty cup. Too many of us sacrifice too much and it’s not a good example for our sons who need to be contributing partners or for our daughters who need to learn boundaries. It’s time for a rebalancing.

Being a mother has brought me both the happiest and most challenging days of my life.

I wrestled with "the shame" I felt for wanting to be a wife & mother until someone wise said in amazement "those are noble desires." It was then that I realized the horrible messages and programming I had grown up with all my life. Been married for 18 years now and we have 5 children. Wonderful! Best. Decisions. In. Life.

Being a mother taught me more about myself than any other life experience, and some of the lessons were not things I'd wanted to know.

My number 1 priority in life is to bring up my children and ensure they have a childhood, they don't have to recover from. I struggle with my childhood trauma on a daily basis and having children only affirms how awful my upbringing was. I'm the mother to them I so desperately wished I had. It is now my duty to break that generational curse and not repeat the history of the women before me 🖤

‘If home was too good, you’d never leave.’ Can’t wait to use that one. It reminded me about an older mom I met with teenagers and kids that were grown and gone and she was complaining about her teenagers behavior. I told her I dread the drama that comes with that someday. And she told me, ‘I believe it serves its purpose. They have to drive you so crazy that you’re ready for them to move out as an adult. If they didn’t drive you to the brink of insanity, you’d die of a broken heart when they leave your home.’

I got married, had children and home educated them for 12 years. At times I felt overwhelmed and underappreciated. However, now that I'm on the other side and my children are adults, I see how valuable it was, suffering and all. There's nothing like watching your kids grow up and be the amazing people they were created to be and I thank God for my part in it!!! Best time I ever spent was training and enjoying my children's growth into maturity.

My mom always said when we’d complain things weren’t fair. “life’s not fair, part of a mother’s job is to acquaint you with that fact”

I married at age 31. Never before that did I ever worry about my biological clock nor did I ever think about marriage. I met Jesus at 28. Met husband in the church. First baby at age 32. The day I held my first born I knew immediately that this was what I was made for. I had baby #4 at age 37. I homeschooled. Amazing if you knew my past. God worked it all out for me. Going on year 40th anniversary and am now having a blast with grandchildren. I wouldn't change a thing. It's all about Jesus.

Being a mother made me love my body. Being a mother made me a more patient person. Being a mother empowered me. Being a mother fulfilled me.

My mom past away a year ago. I was with her when she died of a heart attack. I must say I lost my best friend and she raised six kids by herself as a single mother. She was a widow. My father died when I was three. She decided to stay single and focus in us. Only with a six grade she taught me the value of education. Something that no one can take from you. She's still comes to me in my dreams looking so beautiful, happy and calm. She constantly reprimand me in my dreams. I tell her she should relax, that she already passed away. She always says it's not an excuse for her to call me in my stupidity of losing time, in the things I should be doing. My mom doesn't even take a day off with me. Death hasn't stopped her from telling me, what I should do.

When my son was a newborn, my neighbor told me as long as he knows that I'll always be there for him behind the scenes, I'll have done good. His daughter was killed not even a month later, and the advice stuck with me hard. Because she was such a happy girl. 17, confident, in college, kind... and he knew he'd done his best. It 100% has shaped my mothering. When I don't know how to handle something, this comes to me. I basically raised myself so its some of the only guidance I picked up. But it'd been key.

I'm 37, husband is 44, and we're finally having a child in January. I have the rare type 1 form of diabetes, and I was raised by a mom who was terrified I'd die in childbirth along with a dad who thought the "rapture" would happen in 2008 or 2018, so I didn't think of having a child for quite awhile (my husband also leaned against it for the reason Peterson describes as too clichéd here). My mom passed away in 2018, I'm now amillennial and no longer worry about the rapture, my endocrinologist assured me that type 1 diabetic pregnancies are far less riskier today than they were in the times my mother grew up, and my husband's more stoic side eventually overcame the side that was reluctant to bring a child into the world because of how bad the world is...so here we are! I'm almost 36 weeks pregnant, baby seems fine...we're ready for the challenge.

I was hesitant to ever have kids because I thought I wouldn't be maternal enough to make a good parent. I was in the military and now work in a leadership role in manufacturing, working 60-70 hours a week. I knew nothing about children, especially infants. And always felt too mentally "manly." But I just had my little boy 28 days ago and it's like a damn light switched. He's the most important thing and my instincts have been spot on so far. I pray I'll be worthy of him, because he's incredible.

you don't grow up until you've had children.....hmmm, I know many men who don't grow up even WHEN they have children, in fact become more childlike.

The best experience of life! Nothing in this world (for me anyway) compares to the journey of motherhood. I’m a single mom with zero support or involvement from the dad practically since birth, my son is almost 18 … financially it gets stressful at times, though for the most part he is unaware of that stress as it’s my responsibility not his to bare…. but the massive blessing of raising this amazing little being into an incredible adult has been my greatest privilege in this life. Such a beautiful gift in the human experience.The best if you ask me.

More generations have been raised by stay at home mothers. Society was much better off when women could stay home and tend to their own children. Look at society now, it’s a mess. Children are pretty much raising themselves. No guidance, no structure, and a huge lack of discipline. To all the stay at home mom’s you have the HARDEST JOB IN THE WORLD. You are valued and honorable, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Be proud of yourself! 🙌🏾🙏🏽💪🏾

The problem for modern mothers is societies schema of a perfect mother based on a 1950s model stay at home housewife, 100% devoted to your children, but kinder and more hands on than 1950’s housewives were ever expected to be; whilst also fulfilling societies schema of a devoted employee, which means 100% sacrifice and loyalty towards your employer as if you have no dependents. Plus theres no village to raise children anymore. Society doesn’t support modern mothers.

I'm a new mom and chose to leave my teacher career to be a stay at home mom and wife. Best feeling and decision I've made! I enjoy cooking, taking care of my daughter, and do chores around the house and outside. These kids did not choose to be born just to be thrown in daycare then school. They need love and your time. Raising a child is like investing in a million dollar stock you will see it growing everyday. And after 21 years you see the value in your investment and if you're lucky see your grandkids! 👌

The mother and family is the stability of civilization pretty important job.

Even the women who were mothers for just 9 months before giving their children away, and thereby ending their motherhood, are honored by me. Thank you for carrying me to term, birth mother.

Being a mother is the most rewarding, gut wrenching, exhilarating, heartbreaking positions you can ever hold.

Careers, just a means to make money, family is where life is, some only learn that when it's too late!

A big problem I see is that men and society in general expects us to fulfill the archetype of the Great Mother....to mother everybody else but our selves.

I tell my children you never truly understand love until you have a child. The willingness to happily sacrifice everything from sleep to your perceptions of the world for one tiny person is awe inspiring. I have the privilege of being called mom by 4 amazing kids. You're absolutely right when you say you learn that you aren't an adult, you realize your short comings, and you get the relief from not being the center or attention. Watching full grown "rough" looking people transform back into that hopeful being of their youth at a smile from a baby is amazing. Old people playing peekaboo with your toddler in the checkout line at the grocery store is also heartwarming.

I’m a Mother of five sons and I’ve stayed home for about 30 years now. I recently spent 70 days in a cancer hospital (now in complete remission) and my Father died whilst I was there. My oldest sons were the strength my Mother needed and they stood by her the whole time. (They have listened to a lot of Peterson’s work thankfully). Our fourth son became the parent / big brother to our teenager and they made great progress. I haven’t regretted being home with my children. When you’re on your deathbed-you absolutely know what is important and what you are grateful for. My Christian faith is why we lived this way. We sacrificed for the children. And it has been so worth it. Thank you Dr Peterson. 💙

Just moved a city away from my adult sons and feeling lonley for them and guilty for leaving them to fend for themselves with me an hour away. Wow! I needed the reminder that my Job is to put them out there and face the world gifted with my teaching and love. Thanks to Dr. Peterson! Again....

I had a really abusive upbringing and it took me a long time to tame my nature so I put off having kids so I didn't pass on intergenerational trauma. It wasn't a sacrifice, it was fear. I also was forced to have an abortion at age 15 and almost died during the procedure and had to have other gyne procedures that were very painful. Anyway, fear was my reason. I'm in my 50's now, divorced, no children. I'm grateful it didn't happen and well, that was God's will for me. But as far as growing up, it's true. I still feel like a young adult still learning to take care of myself. Some of us start at point zero in development. Some of us start at -20. I'm grateful I got to where I am and am not a harm to society or anyone but giving back with my work and creative projects. I understand Dr Peterson's point of view but there are nuances to life and traumas that are not about cognitive decisions but deeply seeded issues that need to be honoured.

Being a mother was the best hardest job i ever had and worth every minute.

I hate playing down how much I love spending time with my husband and my children just so I don't upset friends and colleagues who are divorced or not enjoying parenthood. But at the same time I think it's so important young people know and understand how beautiful a family life and parenthood can be so 1) they don't let the bad examples influence their decision about having or not having children and 2) to start the family-adventure with a positive mindset.

I became a mother at 18 years old and now have four children. The greatest accomplishment in my entire life is becoming their mother. Worth every sacrifice.

That's what our pandemic born babies have missed. Having the world love on them simply because they exist.

I always assumed I was going to be a mom. Then, life and God had other plans for me. I am happily married and have an enormous admiration of mothers. They are the most amazing creatures in this world!

Easy for a male to say that it’s not an original thought. It’s an instinct. Many good mother’s have had that thought without having ever heard someone else say it.

I have a friend who doesn't want kids because she doesn't want to change her lifestyle and have the responsibilities of motherhood. And as a mother of 2, I support that shit 10000%.

I am one of 14 {12th} children ,one thing my mom often did was eat last ,long after we had supper. She made sure all of us were fed first ,growing up early in life there was 9 of us at home.

Being a mother was the best experience in my life. I had sacrificed my career so I could raise my kids properly with full attention. Now, I have built a bond that is unbreakable and understand them like an open book. Also, just like Jordan Peterson said, all I need is just a glance ( you should know better), and they understood. I know their strength and weaknesses, and I'll find ways to help them.

I was told by my ex spouse that being a mother was my “role”. It was also excepted in a court of law to break it down to a simple role. Being a mom isn’t a role you play, it’s not a part in a play. It is the greatest privilege and gifts I have ever or will ever be given.

A mother is often taken for granted. She runs the family and search for solutions for her children and husband and forget to take care of herself So always respect and love your mother because no one knows what lives in her mind

"I don't know if it's true, but i know that the opposite is false." Man he's so close to getting the gospel.

I became an RN and had two children while working full time. Eventually my husband and I determined for ourselves what’s important two incomes or a mother that raises, educates her children and is always available. I quit my job had two more children and became a stay at home mom. Homeschool my children and know that I am doing exactly what I want and supposed to do. My kids are so loving, they are courageous, they will stand up against evil and walk with the oppressed. I raise them with so much love, give them the self confidence they need in this world. There is nothing better to see than watch your children laugh and truly be happy.

Oh how your lectures librate me! My mother raised us according to Gibran's prose-poem "On Children" which starts with, "Your children are not your children--they are the son's and daughter's of life's longing for itself..." I understood this poem and raised my children with the awareness of its meaning, allowing my children's souls to play out their lessons with as much support as allowed. Its been colorful but I sill stand by it, and I thank you Dr. Peterson for your continuous, rich, straight forward illuminations in all areas of life. You are indeed an Earth Angel and I love you.

Motherhood is and always will be a huge sacrifice. I say that with all the love I have for my two children. That does not take away the pain, worry, anxiety, etc. you suffer by being a mother. You have joy and worry from the time they are born until YOU die. I am 46 and my mother calls me at least 5 times a week to see if am ok. It doesn't stop when they move out. You will worry until you are dead and not a minute before. Then there is the chance that your child will have special needs. You plan and dream of your child living a full life, and your world crumbles when that doesn't happen. My daughter has autism. Not the new modern kind of autism that some people say they have to fit somewhere (not trying to sound harsh).The kind of autism that leaves you breathless and feeling like you could die from the pain at seeing your child of 25 not being able to tie her shoes. My daughter will need care the rest of her life. People plan for their child's wedding or house buying or college. My husband and I plan for what home or center we will put her in when we die or are to old to care for her. That is real, and no amount of loving will change that. Do I love her? YES. I would give my life for her. Please be prepared for anything before having children. Have a partner that will be there with you through it all (I could not imagine not having my husband with me). Make sure you are all in, before you bring someone into this world. If you are prepared, then be ready for the wonderful joy that being a parent can be. Best of luck to all.

I never wanted children until I met my hubby at 35. I was scared of the responsibility, so I chose to dive in to my fears and now I have a son who is soooo amazing! Life is more challenging, beautiful and scary at the same time, but I’m enjoying watching him learn and grow, and I’m growing as a person. I am grateful to be his mother.❤️❤️❤️

Motherhood is like spirituality. You understand it n its fullest form only when you experience it. We can talk, study and do research about spirituality but we understand it only we when we experience it. Giving birth and first time breastfeeding made me cry. It is an extremely powerful and profound experience. It seems now you understand creation little bit more.

There have been many joys and many sorrows associated with my experience of being a mother. The most fulfilling and challenging part of my life.

You don’t grow up until you have to look after someone else! Absolutely agree ☺️ I appreciate everything this professor says he’s on point on a lot of concepts!

We have an epidemic of over-protective moms and neglecting dads. But people would rather point the finger and blame than pick up the slack. What can be done?

With every child I had my soul expended so much that before my second was born I could not imagine my heart and soul can expend even more. But with every child I feel bigger and worthy of life and love ❤

Blood sweat and tears but oh so worth it. Thank God I had a supportive husband ( the best thing a man can do for his children is to love their mother ) . Four children ( doctor, banker, lawyer and entrepreneur ) It was Not easy but nice now to look back in relief and gratitude.

Damn. I’m born/raised Catholic and never contemplated the quintessential mother of humanity that way; her lot in the role of suffering. Her willingness to send her son off into a violent world to suffer and die as a metaphor for all mothers. It’s probably because I’m a father, but I had to pause the video to just let that settle.

I had many ppl (mostly relatives) ask me why I did not pursue college to "better" myself but instead dove head first into motherhood and housewiving. I told them if they didn't understand, they never would

Raising a family is the hardest job you will ever have. I stayed home. My husband worked. We raised three, hard working young men. I am so proud of my sons. Most kids are monsters because they were raised by monsters or they raised themselves. Kids have to be taught how to love others and how to be decent people. I taught my sons to respect ALL people. ALL colors and ALL races. I was taught that way. My boys are 32, 29 and 21. They still call and ask me questions about everything. You never stop being a Mom. It’s a never ending job !!!!

"You're a Hell of a lot tougher than you think you are." Preach it!

“Behold the handmaid of the Lord.” “Be it done unto me according to thy word.” “And the Word was made flesh.” The epitome of everything.

Beautiful ! I am 5 months pregnant with my fourth at 40! My youngest is 16 right now . I chose consciously to have each one 💜💙

Yep mother’s are truly the glue that holds things together. I am in my late forty’s and just recently lost my mother suddenly to covid and I can already feel this distance coming to my family that has always been close. 😕

As a woman I felt I would miss something essential to being human when I struggled with infertility. Not being able to become a mother seemed to me the tragedy of my life. Thankfully the miracle happened and I have a son. I cried for joy when I found out I'm pregnant and I've also cried for realizing I would never ever be a free person anymore, my life will forever mean the responsability of raising and caring and worrying for that life I brought into the world. Trying to be a good mother is overwhelming me every day but I can't think of anything else that would give my life more meaning.

An uncle of mine once said that the hardest job in the world is looking after someone else. I’ve found out how true that is.

This man has blessed me so much, he has wisdom worth listening to. Sometimes he amazes me.

My son introduced me to you Jordan and I’ve introduced every Uber I’ve had since to you .I didn’t grow up with parents so needed allot of grace at 17 while attempting to me the perfect mother without a learners permit . My dreams for my son since his birth shaped my choices for his future I told him he’d be president one day / when we were homeless living in a tent I told him it was because when he got older and ran for his presidency that the average person would vote for him because they would know he understood what it was like to struggle I told him God worked in ways we don’t always understand That God uses all things for a good . I believe my baby boy help me survive in abusive marriage poverty despair . Some thought I was uppity having such high hopes still I was so proud to be his mom that God chose me being a kid myself I think I wanted for him that which I’d never seen an an option for me . I wanted to change the world in big ways & if I couldn’t I’d raise a son with the ethics morals and humanity worthy of the Oval Office. Today he is 39 his home is paid for he owns two businesses and is looking at purchasing a third He has done all of this in less then a decade by himself He’s a great man If I could give him anything for his birthday it would be lunch with you Jordan his birthday is May 5th He went to see you in Boston we live in Maine You’re one of his heroes God bless you

I've just found out I'm pregnant after a few years of trying and thinking it wouldn't happen for us. Already, things are starting to change and my priorities shifted overnight. I absolutely cannot wait for all of what's to come!

The creator of the pietra was an amazing sculpting artist. When he was young, his mom sent him to live with the wife of a stone mason, and the family, because she was very sick. The surrogate mom cared for him, and he also learned how to work with stone as well. This beautiful sculpture is the result.

The only thankless job there is, is working for someone else. When you're a mother, yes, your children may take you for granted on occasion, but you are the Sun of their solar system.

Becoming a mother puts you into a vulnerable situation. By doing all the child care, you are investing in your partner's earning capacity at the expense of your own. While you are cooking the meals and doing the laundry, he is acquiring knowledge and skills that have monetary value in capitalism. You have no legal right to control any of the income that you are supporting. And the man whose career you are investing in, is entitled to abandon you at any time and give the proceeds of your investment to another woman.

I grew up without a mother but was raised by emotionally absent grandparents , who antagonized me all through out my life even though im alllowed to live in their house i still know those pains had an effect on my young mind im 24 now still living here but ive been slowly vut successfully reconstructing my life and mental state to have a fighting chance at a amazing life that i can be myself and exhibit a warrior spirit through mma to prove anything is possible no matter how bleak the situation seems i know some poor soul has it worse then me But i definetly wonder how i would have turned out if i had the typical mom and dad

The Pieta is the first work of art that ever made me cry, and I was probably 10 the first time I saw it. The happiest I remember seeing my mother, rest her soul, was when she was a stay at home with us kids. Likewise, my happiest memories of her were during that same time. I waited until I was in my 30s to have a child and she's the best thing I've ever done regardless of how effed this world seems. It's hard and tiring, yes, but childhood is short and no one will ever love you like your child and likewise, you will never love ANYONE like you love your child. At the risk of cliché, I truly thought I know what real, unconditional love was until I felt that child kick in my belly and that love continues to expand. I would die for my child without a second thought and no part of caring for her is thankless or without great reward.

I gave birth two months ago and i am mentally,emotionally and physically traumatized.... Now only i understood what it takes to be a mother.... Not doing this again as i almost died

I was putting off my rosary by watching this video…and now i’m going to pause it and pray my Rosary. Did not expect to be confronted with such beautiful insight from the Holy Family when I clicked this. Jordan Peterson, God will indeed bless you for being so respectful of our Blessed Mother.

There is nothing in life more rewarding and fulfilling then having children. Its as if the secret of life is suddenly revealed to you. As women we are blessed with the ability to create a life. Yes its difficult to juggle a career and raise a family and it requires alot of sacrifice, but the love and joy you receive in return is immeasurable.

ALWAYS great to listen to this man, pure gold. Blessings ever from Belfast, Northern Ireland.

I am a single mother of 3 young men and 1 beautiful little girl. My oldest join the Marine Corp and my second son wants to join. Being a mom is the most rewarding and heartbreaking job. Learning how to play both roles as mom and dad got harder as they grew up. My children are my blessings. I thank God everyday for them.

There's nothing more corageous than being a parent, especially a mother. A total sacrifice in all life spheres till you die. Amazing!

My husband left me with five children under twelve, I chose to move away to,the bush and rent a small house live without much money but much wealth, I now have five adults who are respectful kind well educated adults, they know the value of money but they also know the value of close family, we are all still close

It’s funny how no one notices there aren’t a lot of children around until the streets are empty on Halloween. Motherhood isn’t valued in our society.

Mothers have been degraded overall. In 1975 I was told that my husband was insured for thousands while my contribution to the family was rated at a few hundred. The insurance tables basically dictated that home makers and wives were non-contributing and of no monetary value. When my son was indoctrinated into the Army, I was marginalized in favor of the service. As a parent of an adult child, my opinion is the last thing anyone wants because every other source is more agreeable. Disenfranchisement, disillusionment and distress is the lot of women who become mothers - especially today. Smart women choose not to sacrifice to this extent.

I've often regreted not having more children. Another good one from Peterson! Thank you.

Thanks. Peterson starts lectures without knowing how they'll end. Sometimes, he doesn't know the course, but counts himself able and navigates his way. Jordon often teaches as much in his diversions as the main topics. He is an interesting and exciting lecturer sharing some passion. Thanks for sharing this.

I see this all the time as a teacher. The majority of mothers don’t let their children take accountability for their actions, shield them from redirection, or maybe even suffering . It’s very damaging as I’m worried about my students and if they will be able to maneuver in the real world outside of the four walls we do have

My two most greatest gifts from God are my beautiful children. I became a single mom when my oldest was 7 and the youngest 4. I didn’t get child support or any other help. I had a really good job and was able to provide for them. It definitely had its share of stressful moments especially the holidays. My ex and I had to split that up and I would cry almost the entire day and night if they were with him. That was very hard. They are both grown now and are down to earth , polite and well mannered and they don’t get into trouble. They both work full time jobs. The love I feel for them cannot be described into words. It’s a love you’ve never known until you become a mother.

Thank goodness there are so many fantastic moms and dads out there with beautiful families. I had always thought I wanted to be a mother when I was a little girl. But when I got older - I just didn't feel secure enough under the circumstances to embark on that. I felt like it was way too overwhelming and that I didn't feel like I could really rely on anyone enough to be able to raise children. I discovered my own parents were much less dependable and more immature than I had ever realized, and for some reason did not seem to wish the brightest and best future for me, and that the attitude of the majority of people I was around was not conducive to having a healthy family, and especially not for getting pregnant and starting one. My parents really gave it all their effort, but they seriously were not mentally healthy, and it wasn't their fault. And their brothers and sisters weren't either, and that didn't help. And even my grandparents had some real problems, and that also is a big part of why their kids had problems and why I had problems. And a whole lot of people I was around when I was a teenager and young adult had a lot of problems, big problems, probably even bigger problems than mine ever were, and the general idea was that women can take care of kids by themselves and everything will be okay, which I have always known was an absolutely ridiculous false generalization. My feeling about this never changed and just seemed to be a justified opinion over and over again. I really think I made the right decision to avoid any strong romantic involvement with anyone I met and to make sure no accidental pregnancies occurred. I am honest and true to the very core, I do not engage in any kind of shady business, and I look reality straight on. I have no misconstrued fantasies of being able to get away with whatever by manipulating anyone, and if the situation just isn't healthy, I'm sure not going to add to the problem by embarking on a giant responsibility that is going to involve a large part of the rest of my life, most of which is going to rest squarely on my shoulders. If I had met Prince Charming, it would possibly have been different. But I think there are other things I am going to devote my life to that are important that I would not have had the opportunity to do if I had met Prince Charming... and I am grateful for that. We all have lives that differ greatly and the factors are either there or are not that lead us to the decisions we make and the actions we take. I know I made the right decision under the circumstances. But I don't know if it's for better or worse in the end. Should I have chosen to have a child no matter what and to die for that child and to raise the child to be a selfless angel and extreme help to the rest of humanity even if the only outcome for doing that could be death? Possibly. But I didn't. I chose an easier path, but it really was for the greater good as well as for my own good. I don't know what the ultimate sacrifice is. But I try to do what is the right thing to do, and I feel satisfied in my heart that I did at least do that. There are some lucky people who can have beautiful families and they should do it. But that wasn't in the cards for me. I don't really know what kind of mother I would be. But I really don't think it would be the best thing in the world for me to do, and I am going to devote my life to other endeavors that involve using my intellectual skills and abilities to make the world a better place.

I cannot imagine not having children. My two sons are close to 50 now. I have three granddaughters right down the street. Life is good. Lest you think I never worked outside the home, I retired as controller of a company. My sons thanked me for all the sacrifices I made. What sacrifices? Mothers just do what needs doing and get on with life.

I have a teenage daughter, she is a real pain in the arse sometimes, but she is my greatest joy.

Being a mom is great. Having a strong support system is so important while doing it. I live in an extremely rural town with zero family or friends to call upon when I need help- it does a great disservice to my children and myself to not have that kind of community. Wish I had realized that sooner.

My narcissist mother of 92 yrs just told me in a rage of anger I have been a troublemaker all of my life. I have always been there for her, cleaning, caring and trying to make her love me unconditionally. I did not succeed. I walked out after I had said that I forgive her. I have endured her verbal and physical abuse since childhood. I will no longer tolerate her backstabbing, her chronic lies and listening to her slandering the other members of the family and me for that matter. I definitely feel sad but elated that I had the courage to stop the abuse and that I have stood up to defend myself. Parental estrangement at 70. Imagine that! I do want to honor her, love her and be a caring daughter but nothing that I have done could win her heart. I pray for her daily.

I love being a mother i love taking care for my husband and children and I accept my role. I don't let socialety make me feel ashamed of how I pour my heart into my family.

Motherhood is my biggest responsibility, greatest joy & the thing that brings the most meaning to my life. If we used pain & suffering as a reason not to do things we wouldn’t do anything .. at least nothing worthwhile. Love is painful, relationships are hard but we don’t get refined without a little pressure & chipping away. I never for a minute considered not having kids.. definitely not because the world is so awful… I always imagined the infinite potential my kids brought into the world & how they can make an impact. As Christ followers that impact is for the kingdom not just the present material world. That’s not to say there’s something wrong w/you if you don’t have kids but I personally can’t imagine my life any other way.

As a mom of 4, when they were babies/toddlers/ I never thought of all the “bad” things that could happen to them. As they’ve gotten older I’ve started to worry. Especially now as my oldest who’s 16 is getting so close to leaving the nest. All I can do is trust them, trust my faith, my prayers. I love his perspective & I have to let them go, it’s inevitable. They have to have their struggles I suppose. I’ve definitely had my own growing up & yet here I am. I’ve dealt with whatever came my way. All I can do is be here for them & always love them unconditionally ✌🏼🙏🏼❣️

What a great video. Thank you for sharing!

Thank you for this... I share this often. This is why families are suffering, and mothers constantly feel they are falling short

I had a conversation during the pregnancy of our third, I’m a guy. I had an old college friend call me and mentioned how much I had grown up. It’s absolutely true that you are not completely grown up until someone is more important than you!

There is a Filipino (Visayan) saying something like ... "You can only repay your mother if you become one"...

I experienced other people liking my babies. I had four sons in the 1970s. I felt frustrated that I didn't get my university degree during those years, but at the age of 49, I earned an Associate of Arts Degree with student loans. I have say, that the years I spent at home with our sons were the best of my life. My most gratifying feelings come from watching our sons achieve good things by working hard and being honest and reliable. I enjoyed my university courses later in life. What you say is true.

Provocative, thought provoking and entertaining. Makes me wish I had seen the whole lecture.

I really needed to hear this! I'm at the stage of sending my Son out into the World & although I have 2 daughters who are out there doing their best life & they are intelligent loving humans, I worry about my Son as he seems to disagree with alot of the way things are to the point he doesn't want to get involved or get out there. As a teenager myself I was out going caring & if something didn't seem right or people were being hurt in some way we'd protest or try change the situation to a better outcome! My Son is also very intelligent & has a cares so much for the things he is interested in & the people but I did worry about him going out into the World buy after seeing this talk today it resonates very deeply & I understand. Thank you💌

I am the happiest I've ever been since becoming a mother. I have gladly given up my career. Even with having two emergency c-sections. I would go through it all agian over and over. In fact I want one more child. I feel this is my path.

Quitting this video half way as it's reminding me of my late mother n making me cry. She was a perfect mother.

I could listen to him all day. ❣️