Every mama was so different and each one had a story, one that had shaped them into who they are as a mother. The room was filled with all types and ages, from glowing mamas expecting new babies all the way through grandmas walking that road of grace-filled perspective. It was a get-to-know you night before we started our discussions of the book, Triggers. What an amazing experience to see the thread weaving through each of us, the common factors tying our hearts together. I could see almost immediately the power that was in the gathering. It was the ultimate example of Ecclesiastes 4:9-12…
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor:
If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.
Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
There was power in the recognition; we are not alone. She gets it. That mama has been where I am. Connecting even across the room as laughter and tears flowed through the stories shared.
There was power as we heard from the generations, the moms who were now grandmas, speaking grace and encouragement to the rest of us.
We spoke of forgiveness. Forgiveness for the ones who have raised us, even forgiveness for our children. And because we also spoke of regrets, of feelings of failure and precious time gone by, we spoke of forgiveness for ourselves. Putting the past behind us, making a fresh start. A new beginning together, knowing that all these other mamas are going through this book, digging deep, praying, struggling, changing…experiencing new hope.
And so we begin this hard work of wanting to change those around us, but realizing we can only change ourselves. This motherhood journey is the chance to allow God to work in us, to use our children to change us to be more like Him. We see that we can control ourselves and make our own wise choices, not theirs. We have this beautiful opportunity to show our children how incredibly flawed human beings can rely solely on the grace and power of a living God.
That’s what these gathering are all about. We aren’t meant to walk this path alone, sweet mamas. There is power in the gathering, so reach out.
Two are better than one!
If you are local to the Rochester area, and would like to join a Mom Meet-Up group, there are a few groups starting up in that area. Here are a couple of Facebook links with information…
RGT Moms’ Meet Up – Rochester City
