I am a 23 year old mother in her 2nd year of parenting. I’m tired, I’m grouchy, my hair is unforgiving, and I can’t remember the last time I did something for myself, let alone anyone else. You say “Save the world!” and I’m thinking “Save my nap!”. And nine months ago, I simply groaned at the idea of social change, hid behind my fear and pretended I couldn’t hear you.
I had made my choice.
You see, there IS a moment of choice. A moment when we look inside ourselves and dig for concern, for inspiration, for the drive it takes to launch inspiration into action. This moment may only last a split second but it makes the difference between standing up and taking part in change, or retreating back within our comfort zone, back within our fear.
I met Rocky, aka HeadMutha this past January. I had only just joined CafeMom when I discovered her witty, often hilarious, sometimes serious, but always interesting posts. I made the assertion, almost immediately, that she must be crazy. Six kiddos! I had only one and I felt pretty batty as a result. As time passed I was surprised to find that she was not only eloquent, funny, and down to earth, but she had motherhood figured out! She had motherhood figured out AND she was an activist for children in Africa! I remember thinking, “Wow, this is someone I want to know!”
Somewhere in my heart of hearts, I have always dreamt of making a similar impact on the world, but I really had no idea how to begin. So I kept reading. I read everything she wrote for several months, leaving messages and genuinely feeling very inspired, but unmotivated. I was convinced that any effort must be BIG effort, with BIG results and BIG changes. Who am I to tackle such things?
One afternoon in February, Rocky posted a journal called Inspired to do More and I was floored. I was astounded. Even this unique woman, who seemed to have such a clear vision, had at one point felt lost and overwhelmed. Suddenly it was so simple; everyone must begin somewhere. It finally clicked within my mind that I was not alone.
It’s been nine months since I last evaluated my decision. I feel my call for choice again. I feel the tug of responsibility, and as a more aware citizen of this globe, I can not back down. The opportunity is at my fingertips. I know that this path is daunting, that I may not make much of a difference, but I’m willing to try.
I have made my choice.
Rocky, I would like to say on this the eve of your trip to Kenya, that you have opened the doors to a journey I never imagined I had the strength to pursue, and helped me discover a choice I never had the courage to make before meeting you. I am consistently inspired by your passion and thankful for your guidance. I have many things to learn, and still often feel incapable, but I always remember that “We’re taking it day by day.” We’re all in this together. And while we may not be in Africa by your side, we are in spirit.
I believe I may speak for the folks here at Mother’s Fighting For Others, as well as everyone who supports our collective causes when I wish you an amazing journey in Africa and a very safe and enlightened return.
My dear Friend Taryn, I hope you understand how this has touched me. Thank you, thank you for what you said and all you do. I am proud to call you my friend. I know, together, all of us will do great things.
Amen sister! Love to you Rocky.. You are in my thoughts each day.
Yeh, Rocky has a way of doing that to us.. huh?
Taryn how beautiful and heartfelt! You are an amazing gal! And Rocky…you have opened up a door to a new world for many of us. A world of mothers working together to help make a change! Thank you for that….thank you for everything!
Very well said! And very WELL DONE! My life is so much better today than the same day last year…and it is all in the doing instead of the thinking about doing. Rocky is an inspiration as is anyone who is willing to swallow pride and fear and just stand up for something that will help make this a better world for our children.
that’s awesome girl! I’m going to look into this as well…
-Linnette