I hear it whispered between the kids. I’m the mean mom. I bring healthy snacks and don’t let my son have soda. I make everyone take care of their garbage when they would rather just let it blow away. I have rules and I expect them to be followed. Technology is the first victim if those rules aren’t followed.
I’m the mean mom and I don’t mind.
I hear the kids whisper about it after my son joins them at the park without his phone. They speak in hushed tones, as though I’m some kind of monster that could jump out and eat them too. I am the mean mom and I don’t mind.
It’s harder when the whispers are coming from the other moms. It can be lonely if you’re in the wrong group with no support. I’ve been there. There is a certain amount of isolation when you are vocal about your beliefs. Especially if they aren’t popular. My child has been raised in a house where bullying is not tolerated, the “boys will be boys” mentality doesn’t fit in our lives. My son has always been allowed to play with any toy he chooses because we don’t believe in “boys” or “girls” toys, colors, clothes either… because simply put – items don’t have genders.
It’s a hard road to walk, though. People can be judgmental. Kids can be mean. I often have to remind myself it’s going to be okay. My child will make friends. I will make friends. It won’t always feel so isolating.
We will find our mom tribe, the one that feels right and easy. Until then, we’re going to keep painting our nails, having surprise karaoke parties, and living our lives to the fullest. Life is an adventure; it is what we make of it.
