13 Comments
User's avatar
Britt McCauley's avatar

This is truly beautiful. Before I embraced the journey of motherhood, I lived in a state of generic “spirituality,” raised by parents who identified as Christian but rarely set foot in a church, and I was completely unaware of who Jesus truly was. Even though I often sensed God reaching out to me, I turned a blind eye to those persistent signs and chased after a worldly, socially acceptable life.

Deep down, I always knew that this path wasn’t what I truly desired—something within me whispered that it just didn’t feel right. I went through the motions of attending college, diving into a full-time job, and somewhat reluctantly climbing the corporate ladder. Yet, it never resonated with me, never offered that sense of fulfillment I craved. My husband and I waited several years to start a family, even though my heart longed for that connection right from the start, as we prioritized our careers and other aspirations.

But everything changed when I welcomed my first child into the world two years ago; the voice of God became unmistakable. Without getting into too many details, a series of crises brought me to my knees when she was around ten months old, and in that moment, I realized I could no longer ignore Him or the deep yearning within me to be a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker. Since then, we have been diligently working toward that goal. Now, with our second little one on the way, I plan on fully embracing the role of a stay-at-home mom after my maternity leave. The Lord has blessed us abundantly and has guided us in this decision, and we continue to seek His wisdom as we prepare for this new chapter.

The heart transformation that unfolds during matrescence, especially when intertwined with the presence of Jesus, is the most beautiful experience I’ve ever encountered. Thank you for sharing yours.

Expand full comment
Katie Donohue Tona's avatar

This comment truly blesses me, Britt, and wow what a testimony (Also just realized recently that I never looked at or responded to any of these comments so my apologies on the late response!) But praise the Lord for how He has moved in your life and called you into motherhood and homemaking. And thank you so much for reading, sharing your heart, and being here!

Expand full comment
Debi Hassler-Never Forsaken's avatar

Daisy and you are forming a lifelong relationship based on love. Being a mom is every bit of a “job”, a career even, though many don’t see it that way.

The “pay” is lasting and live-giving, the rich reward of prioritizing family over finances. May the Lord bless you and your family. He will provide for your needs-enjoy these sweet toddler moments, cherish them.

Expand full comment
Katie Donohue Tona's avatar

Thank you so much for these kind words Debi :) so well said!

Expand full comment
Kym VdP's avatar

Wow this was so well written, so good.

Expand full comment
Katie Donohue Tona's avatar

Thank you Kym! :)

Expand full comment
Sierra Westerholm's avatar

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I'm not a mom. I'm not even married lol. I work full-time, but at a job, not a career. Ever since I was little, all I wanted was to be a stay-at-home mom. And then I let the world's pressures get to me as soon as I started highschool. I put SO much pressure on myself to try and find a career, like you're supposed to do, and NOTHING was hitting my heart right. I ended up choosing a bachelor's in Psychology: Christian Counseling because it was the only thing I didn't feel sick to my stomach in stress over. And I loved every class. But my life changed so much in my college years, that I realized I didn't want to do counseling like I initially planned. Like you, my views on therapy, and on God helping people, changed. I'm not doing what I "should"with my college degree. I'm not doing what is expected by the world. But I can't ignore the strong whisper in my heart that is still there - I just want to be a stay-at-home mom. I'll work hard at my job in the meantime. But I just can't plan for a long term career like "I should." Something strongly urges me against it.

So THANK you. I can't tell you how refreshing it is to have that confirmed. I'm sorry haha, I know I just dumped a few paragraphs on you, but I wanted to let you know how it encouraged me!

Expand full comment
Katie Donohue Tona's avatar

Wow Sierra I LOVE this. (Also just realized recently that I never looked at or responded to any of these comments so my apologies on the late response!) But praise Jesus that this post was refreshing for you and a confirmation. I pray that the Lord would lead you and that one day you will be that stay-at-home mama who can speak of the call that God placed on your heart from a young age to steward your home and family as your full-time ministry :))

Expand full comment
Sierra Westerholm's avatar

Thank you! :) All good! I always love reading your stuff, and I appreciate all your encouragement! :D

Expand full comment
Dre Thomas's avatar

“but would my heart be at rest? Would my spirit be at ease?” These are the questions! This was good, thanks for sharing

Expand full comment
Katie Donohue Tona's avatar

Thank you so much! :)

Expand full comment
Kathy Young's avatar

Wow, your conviction and fierce mama heart are inspiring. Home is holy ground, indeed. Amen and amen!

Expand full comment
Katie Donohue Tona's avatar

Wow just realized I never saw or responded to any of these comments LOL thank you friend :)) I appreciate your kind words!

Expand full comment