Dear Mama, You’re Not Behind

If you’ve been searching for encouragement for overwhelmed moms, you’re in the right place. This letter is for the mama who feels like she’s always one step behind — and needs a reminder of grace.


Dear Mama,

If you’re reading this in yesterday’s makeup or this morning’s pajamas — I see you.
If your to-do list has more things unchecked than checked, and you’ve reheated your coffee three times and still haven’t finished it — I’ve been there too.


Some days motherhood feels like a race you didn’t sign up for. Everyone’s ahead, their houses are cleaner, their kids are quieter, their hair somehow curled. You’re just trying to keep the little ones alive and maybe remember where you put your phone. Again.


But can I tell you something?


You’re not behind.
Not in motherhood.
Not in life.
Not in your story.


You are exactly where you’re meant to be — in the messy middle, the stretching season, the divine delay that makes space for something softer to bloom.


I know it’s hard when everyone else looks like they’ve got it together. When the baby won’t sleep, the dishes are high, and your heart feels heavy. I know what it’s like to feel like your life is stuck on pause while the world keeps spinning.


But your story? It’s not on pause.
It’s being written — right here, right now, in the middle of the ordinary.


And no, it doesn’t look like hers. It was never supposed to.


I believe in the slow stories.
The ones built between loads of laundry and whispered prayers.
The ones covered in sticky fingerprints and grace.


So if today feels small, tired, or unfinished — that’s okay.
You are still becoming.
And becoming takes time.


You’re not behind, Mama.
You’re just in progress.


And this story of yours?
It’s still being written.


Much love always,


The Story Mama





Want to know more about why I started this space? Visit thestorymama.org to explore more gentle stories and reflections.

Looking for a gentle scripture to hold on to? Read Isaiah 40:11 here. He carries you close.