Working Mom –What help is available?

So often, moms feel so very tired and alone. We can feel isolated,defeated, and wonder if there is any relief. Fortunately, there is. One thing to remember -- this is only for a season. Those samechildren will grow up and become very independent all too soon. Begin cutting out all nonessentials from your life during thisseason of life. There will be time later to do those things again.While in the midst of the battle, it is vital to take some time foryourself.

Some ideas to help alleviate some of the stress and load:

• Assign everyone a chore. It will take some time to enforcetheir duty, but in the long run it will work.

• Accept and admit that you are not superwoman. If somethingdoesn't get done, the world will not stop revolving.

• Enlist other women to help. While you watch their children,they can take care of some of your errands or cleaning. Decide whichof you has the desire in a certain area and then use your strengthsto help each other.

• Take "down" time for yourself every day, even if it's onlyfor fifteen minutes. Pray, meditate, rest. Bubble baths are a greatway to do this.

• Find a good friend -- someone you can trust and talk with.

• Journal -- write down your fears, feelings, all the thingsyou are going through. Sometimes it helps to get the feelings outwithout blowing up at another person.Last but definitely not least, pray. It's amazing what God can andwill do to help you through those times when you believe you can'tgo one more step or do one more thing. Praying for help, strength,confessing how alone we are helps release some of the pent upemotions and allows God to provide what we need and restore ourweary minds so that we can go on, not just limping, but in strengthand joy.

Salam,
Nenden Maryam