A friend recommended ‘A Mother’s Rule Of Life’ to me when I was expecting my first child, and I was not disappointed! The author, Holly Pierlot, draws on the wisdom of the monastic ‘Rule’ and applies it to the busy life of a mother, particularly pertaining to what she terms ‘the five Ps’: Prayer, Person (self), Partner, Parent and Provider. She details the importance of giving adequate attention to each of these domains. Tying them together in her own rule of life, which is effectively a schedule, viewed from a supernatural standpoint.
To develop a rule for oneself is challenging, and is I believe a process that one must pray about and grow into, just as one grows in virtue – there is lots of trial and error, and lots of ‘starting again’! I must confess that I tried it for a while, but gave it up when my little one’s routine changed. With the new year upon us I am planning on taking it up again! Holly Pierlot makes it as easy as possible by providing a thorough framework and several examples.
She also caters for those with newborns and the challenges associated with their often unpredictable timetables. Even if you don’t develop your own rule, this book still has the potential to enrich your life with the wisdom it contains. Regardless of your personality, whether you are naturally drawn to planning or not. This book is a ‘must read’ for busy mums who want to discover the fullness of their vocation. This is for first-time mums, like myself, who have moved from the order and structure of the professional world into the home, and need a bit of help to ‘get started’. It is for anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by her role, who struggles to be organised, who has ever doubted the value of her role as a mother, or who just needs some affirmation or inspiration. Enjoy!
Originally posted 2014-01-03 22:07:12.