I thought I had experience—after all, I’ve raised five children… But experience doesn’t change much, and I often feel helpless when I see your tears, my baby, my little one. My heart is filled with love when I look at you, but I feel so fragile myself when I hear you cry. The exhaustion from my short nights—because I’ve been rocking you for so long—doesn’t help, but looking back, these are wonderful moments—having you so close to me and being able to breathe in the scent of your little hair.
I don’t want to leave the house anymore, because I’m tired of hearing the comments from people around me: “The baby is crying so loud” (yes, I have two ears just like you—I can hear him crying too) or “Is she going to keep crying like that for much longer? ” (I’m trying to calm her down, ma’am, and if only you knew how much I wish she wouldn’t cry like that!) On the other hand, when I meet understanding people who help me pack my groceries so it goes faster or who tell me I’m a good mom and that it’s not always easy, I thank them. You have to appreciate these people and let the negative ones slide.
Yes, my baby, I hear you crying. Mommy and Daddy would love so much to take away your sadness and understand what’s bothering you. We’re here for you, and even though we’re tired, we’ll keep holding you, cuddling you, and rocking you until your sadness goes away. The housework can wait, and so can the dishes. This is just a difficult phase to get through; later, we’ll realize you’ve grown up too fast.
No, you’re not one of those “easy” babies, but I know your cheerful side is hiding somewhere, because I often see it appear—your beautiful smile—when the storm finally calms down. When I see you smile, I see it—that light in your eyes—and I know it’s me you’re looking at, and that I’m the one who brings that beautiful smile to your face. I see it in your eyes—how much I mean to you—and that’s what gives me the strength to face yet more storms of tears.
Wipe away your tears, my baby—Mommy’s here. I’ll always be here for you, even when you’re no longer a baby. I love you! Your mommy.