Somewhere along the line, the martyr gene was bred into moms. Even modern moms, who are juggling more than any generation before, still feel a twinge of guilt when they splurge on 
a $5 cup of coffee, or consider adding a new pack of cotton underwear to their carts.
This is completely natural, because we’re taught that the needs of our children come first. With which I absolutely 100 percent agree. No child should ever want for the things they need. I’m hip to that jive.
The thing is, AFTER our children’s needs are met… and then some… we still eyeball those cotton briefs and thing, “Hmmm… but that money could go to a couple packs of those Justin Bieber trading cards she loves so much.” That’s a sweet sentiment and all, but mama, when you’re down to four pairs of panties, and only one of them is completely free of holes and has the waistband totally attached, then it’s time to put mama first. Incidentally, I have a strict “moms before Biebers” policy.
I would never in a bajillion years say that a child should suffer for a parent’s indulgence. I do, however, think that it’s healthy to do something good for yourself from time to time. You work hard to exceed your children’s needs and wants, so when is it your turn? When they graduate college, get married and have children of their own? Yeah, right. Then you’ll just spend that underwear money on the grandkids.
My point is, it’s a pattern that could use a little tweaking. Moms deserve to spoil themselves from time to time, too. It’s good for both you and your family, because:
- You’ll have little things to look forward to that are just for you. It’s amazing how much excitement can build up knowing you’re going to get a new $10 bracelet at the end of the month.
- Your kids will see that you value yourself, too. This not only helps them recognize you as a valuable person, but as they grow up, they’ll feel the same way about themselves.
- It will combat that itty bitty voice in the back of your head that occasionally whispers, “When’s it my turn?” Don’t be ashamed. We all hear it.
- It keeps you in touch with yourself as a woman. Not as a mom. Not as a wife. As you, a woman with needs and desires.
- You’ll feel more and more motivated to do other things for yourself, like sleep in a little on Saturday morning, or soak in the tub with a book from time to time.
These are all good, positive things that can come out of indulging yourself occasionally. If you still have doubts, then think to your children’s future. Would you want your daughter to always think of herself last? Would you want your sons to expect their wives to be completely selfless all the time? If your answers were “no,” then it’s time to think about the example you’re setting. Then, go out and buy yourself some new unmentionables. If you really feel saucy, don’t just get white ones.
What’s your favorite way to indulge?
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