[Wondergirl]

First published: May 11, 2012

You often hear that being a mother is one of the hardest jobs, if not the hardest job, in the world. True, you do get your fill of two a.m. feedings and sleepless nights, and there is no doubt that the worry of an ill infant, who can't express what is wrong, will have you questioning whether you are even up to the job, but is it really hard?

You'll hit the toddler years, full of endless energy, the strive for independence, and questioning “why”, only to revisit the same things somewhere on the way to the teen years. At times, you will second guess your decisions about when to extend more responsibility and freedom, and you'll soon start to miss those days when your pearls of wisdom went unquestioned; your guidance was sought, but is it really hard?

Before you even see it coming, you will have made new friends in your children. They seek out their own thoughts, opinions, and dreams. If you are fortunate, they will freely share them with you and, at times, perhaps once again seek your guidance.

Yes, being a mother can be hard. It will be chaotic and exhausting, full of frustration and concern, but all of those will be tempered with joy, exhilaration, and fun. You'll experience excitement, pride, friendship, and boundless love.

Motherhood is a hard job, but it is a most rewarding job as well. No other job will compare. If you do it well, and are fortunate, what you receive for all of that hard work will be priceless….and worth it all.