Mommy Grace by Dr. Shelia Schuller Coleman

Mommy Grace by Dr. Shelia Schuller Coleman

The book is based on the premise that all mom’s tend to feel mommy guilt over not being the perfect mother. Sometimes we yell, sometimes we stop for fast food because there’s absolutely nothing in the cupboards at home, sometimes we make hollow threats, and sometimes we even want a break. To be honest, I don’t feel guilty about any of those things and never have. I’m not big on guilt. You do the best you can in life, apologizing and making corrections along the way when you need to.

So, why was I reading this book? I love the cover, those two open hands layered with paint captured me, reminded me of my own daughter.

I do feel I got something out of Coleman’s honest and occasionally touching accounts of her own and others’ experiences, screw-ups and all. I found instances I could relate to as I’m sure every mother will. Each of the chapters is more or less a devotional telling a short story followed by a scripture and beautiful poem prayer. She reminds us that God is always the one in control, even when our lives are chaotic, and that He forgives us and loves us unconditionally. Good reminders for all of us. I  appreciate her choices in scriptures, too. I’ve actually thought about posting one or two on the fridge to catch my eye through the day.

I was, however, put off by her assumption that all good mothers, all mothers who really care, feel mommy guilt. I love Amber, my daughter, dearly and do the best I can, but I’m not going to beat myself up over not having any milk, or yelling when I’m fed up. I don’t need Coleman to tell me that it’s okay not to obsess over the ways I don’t live up to the ideal. I’ve had to apologize to Amber multiple times over the years, but that’s okay with me. I’m not a perfect mom, far from it, but I am the perfect mom for her, a sentiment the Coleman endorses.

God created me perfectly just for my boys and their needs. And he knew exactly what gifts to give other mothers just for their children! God has a different plan for each of our lives— a wonderful, beautiful, perfectly created plan. (pg. 89)

Christian mothers with children still in the home will probably all find at least one tidbit here to encourage them, comfort them, or just remind them that everyone has those days when the kids color on the furniture.

Published April 8, 2009
160 pages