©2000 by Susan Noyes Anderson, Sunshine for the Latter-day Mother’s Soul, Eagle Gate

Just for a change I’d like to make

a change this very day–

I’d like to do the things that all

those mothering books say.

I’d like to give up yelling and

perfect the old “I” statement.

(Not “turn that racket down!”) …

but “I’m in need of noise abatement.”

(Not “talk back once more and you’re toast!”) …

but “I demand respect.”

(Not “Brush your teeth, or die!”) …

“I fear your hygiene is suspect.”

I’d like to be the kind of mom

who gets the kids to clean

(and they all end up having fun,

and no one thinks you’re mean!).

I’d like to be the kind who gets

the dinner on the table

and never has to set it ‘cause

her children are so able…

And willing, oh, I’d like to be

the kind that makes them willing–

I’d write a how-to book, and

would I ever make a killing!

I’d sort of like to be the type

who’s frugal as can be

and manages her time so well

she’s always home by three.

The kind whose kids are never spoiled

because they love to work,

who think a kid who asks his mom

for money is a jerk.

I’d really like to be that kind––

and, oh, just one more thing…

I’d like to be the kind who’s never

freaked by anything.

The kind who always keeps her cool,

no matter what goes down.

The kind who can control her kids

with one look, or one frown.

(Or two looks or two frowns, or even

one big burst of words!)

I’d like to be the kind who looks

real hip, but not absurd.

In short, I’d like to be a mom

who’s good as good can be.

The only problem is, how would

my children know it’s me?