Everyone wants to hold the baby, but who holds the mum?

by GroBrain

Becoming a mother, for the first time especially, but also after every subsequent baby, is a huge transition for a woman. Her life will never look quite the same again each time.

Inundated with visitors, trying to look like she’s on top of things, trying to get to know her new bundle, figuring out feeding, trying to keep the rest of the home running, smiling for people who come in the door, thinking of conversation, trying to have enough in the tank emotionally for her new baby, her partner, any other children, all while her body is exhausted and healing. It’s no wonder a mum’s emotional tank can run so low.

When you visit a mum, make HER a cup of tea. Ask her how SHE is, not just the baby. Give her a hug. Look into HER face and tell her how wonderful she is. Bring some cake or a treat for her. Don’t overstay your welcome, she will be exhausted no matter what she says! Bring dinner for her and her family. Bring a card saying ‘well done’. Bring flowers. If you are a close friend or close family member, offer to help around the house if she would find that a blessing (people vary, some might not but some would jump at the chance). Hang out her washing. Wash up. Encourage her to sit while you look after HER for half an hour. Come ready to bless her and serve her, not just to stare at this new babe.

New life is truly miraculous, but so is the one who brought it into being. The Mum. The one who so often gets missed in the aftermath.