My kids are watching

 My kids are watching.

They’re watching how I treat myself.
They’re watching how I speak about myself.
They’re watching if I ever choose me.

I grew up watching my parents give and give until there was nothing left for them.
They wore exhaustion like a badge of honor.
They sacrificed every part of themselves because that’s what “good parents” did.

But I’m breaking that cycle.

I want my kids to see me rest.
To see me say no.
To see me choose peace over pressure.
To see me take a break when I need one.
To see me not just survive motherhood, but still find me in it.

Because I want them to know that choosing yourself isn’t selfish.
It’s safety.
It’s self-worth.
It’s strength.

Choosing me teaches them they’re allowed to do the same.
And I will never apologize for showing them that.