Embracing the 'New Mom' Identity

By Christina Chaney

           "Hey Luke's Mom" is often how I am greeted these days. Or sometimes people skip me altogether and go straight for Luke. Who can blame them right? He is the cutest baby you've ever seen (call me bias). But come on… has the person formerly known as Christina left the planet, now being replaced with someone by the name of "Luke's Mom"? Don't get me wrong, I love being mom. It has changed my life for the better in so many ways. But prior to having my son, my biggest fear was childbirth. Hearing scary stories from the women around and how writers portray it in films added to that fear. Fast forward to now, my greatest fear is leaving this earth without maximizing my potential.​ 

 Ok, so here is my transparent moment. The adjustment period immediately following the birth of my son was challenging. I would find myself reflecting on my life and if I was where I wanted to be. I had read up on multiple studies of women (postpartum) experiencing crazy hormonal imbalances that oftentimes led to Postpartum Depression. I began to do self-assessment tests, as recommended by my midwives, whenever I felt to be heading in that direction. I would constantly  question my self-worth and feel blindsided because of the new territory I was in. I would bust out into tears just because. When Stephon would come home from work, I would ask him to just hug me... and for those of you who don’t know me, I am NOT “emo” (emotional). But thank the Lord, after experiencing His comfort and peace (and taking the test), postpartum depression was not my portion.

 Luke wasn’t the only person born in March of last year. A mother was born as well. The gift of motherhood has given me a whole new outlook on life in general, and a newfound respect for mothers in particular. When I used to see mothers and their kids, I didn’t feel that there was anything special about them. In fact, it annoyed me sometimes, especially if the kid was being problematic. But now, I can see what a virtuous woman really looks like. I get to empathize with her. I understand her, I relate to her, and I want to offer help any way I can. Even if it’s just holding her bag while she cleans off her child's face. Wisdom is another byproduct of motherhood, and no amount of money can ever buy you wisdom. If you're a mother, you're probably nodding your head in agreement. And if you aren’t you are in for a treat. 

 Motherhood is a gift. It can be fun, challenging and a little redundant at times. You might even encounter thoughts of inadequacy, but then experience superhero strength all in the same day. I’ve chosen to lean on strength and fight the thoughts against myself that the enemy tries to inflict my mind with. Becoming a mother makes you vulnerable, and that’s only because you partner with the Blesser in birthing one of the greatest blessings this world will ever receive. So naturally, you will face opposition. But you are an overcomer!

 In this new life of mine, I have no choice but to trust God, enjoy the process, and know that great things require a great deal of wisdom and faith. What better way to gain wisdom than by becoming a mother? I can only imagine what I will learn by having 2 kids running around. Oh yea, I'm pregnant!
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