Reflections on Mommyhood

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Contents

Preface
The Presence
Waiting
Time Bomb
Wolf, Wolf
Rough Passage
The Newborn
Garage Sales and Baby
Mom's Conflict
Another Battle
The Transformation
My Child
Vacation with Baby
Busy Baby
The Battle
Horsie
Exploring
At Thirteen and Fourteen Months
Books and Puzzles
Christmas 1984
Lookie, Mommy
Toddler Words
A is for Ark
Me, Daniel
Three Little Words
Mommy, It Hurts
Daniel
No
Why?
Tired Again
Comparisons
Two Little Boys
A Father's Pride
Number Two Son
Tears
Oh, God
Too Soon

Another Battle

 

What kind of ship should this mother run?
What kind of style ensures battles won
Should I be lenient, non-scheduled, relaxed,
Spontaneous, flexible, even non-taxed?
Should I be rigid, so scheduled today?
It's all by the clock now, you don't have a say.
What kind of rules should I make for your life?
Don't touch plants, no T.V., no paper, no knife,
But what can I "Yes, Yes" for you at your age?
Yes sofa, yes toys that are geared for your stage.
But what of your nap? The battle grows hot.
Should I get you up? Should I lay you back?
Should I hold you down? Am I on the right track?
Should I rock you to sleep? Should I let you cry?
When you go on so long, I feel I could die.
But holding you down, my hand on your back?
"Lay down" I command you, and paddle I pack.
What when you're crying and I know you need sleep?
How should I handle this? I really could weep.
What is the right thing? The kind thing to do?
Advice greatly varies (but it's not up to you).
Given our temperaments--my child and me,
Where is the balance? I wish I could see.
I try out one method and when that doesn't work
I sit down unhappy, and housework I shirk.
I wish to resolve this--what's right for us?
What gives results with a minimum of fuss?
When will the peace come of decisions well-made?
I've consulted, I've pondered, I've questioned, I've prayed.
Oh, Lord, give me wisdom to know what to do
With naptime, no-no time, and all the day through.
Copyright © 1988 by Judith E. Garling

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