The Stew of Motherhood and Life

A long time ago, a coworker shared something with me about motherhood that has never left my mind.

She said: "Think of it like making a big pot of beef stew. You add your stew meat, peas, carrots, onions, potatoes, and celery. You season it with tomato paste, beef broth, parsley, garlic, or whatever else you love. Once it’s all mixed together, it’s ready to serve. But here’s the thing—when people are served, some may get more peas, others more carrots, and a few might make sure they get a little of everything. You’ve made it all available, but not everyone will receive the same portion. And that’s not your fault. You gave what you had to give.”

That image stuck with me.

Over time, I tried to live differently. I wanted to make sure that everyone had it all—every piece of wisdom, love, patience, and care I could offer. But as I grew, I realized something important: whether it’s offered or not, it’s ultimately up to each person if they digest it all.

Motherhood, relationships, and even life itself are a lot like that stew. We put in what we have. We mix it with love, effort, and intention. But in the end, we can’t control who gets more peas, who gets more carrots, or who decides to leave something sitting in their bowl.

Our responsibility is to prepare and offer. The choice to take it in belongs to them.