Business Quote by Nancy Friday
““Nancy, you know I’m not really good at this mothering business,” she says. “You’re a lovely child, the fault is not with you. But motherhood doesn’t come easily to me. So when I don’t seem like other people’s mothers, try to understand that it isn’t because I don’t love you. I do. But I’m confused myself. There are some things I know about. I’ll teach them to you. The other stuff– sex, love and all that – well, I just can’t discuss them with you because I’m not sure where they fit into my own life. We’ll try to find other people, other women who can talk to you and fill the gaps. You can’t expect me to be all the mother you need. I feel closer to your age in some ways than I do my mother’s. I don’t feel that serene, divine, earth-mother certainty that you’re supposed to that she felt. I am unsure how to raise you. But you are intelligent, and so am I. Your aunt loves you, your teachers already feel the need in you. With their help, with what I can give, we’ll see that you get the whole mother package-all the love in the world. It’s just that you can’t expect to get it all from me.””
About This Quote
A mother confesses her inadequacy and uncertainty, promising love and support while acknowledging she cannot fulfill every parental role alone.
In simple terms: She loves her child but admits she can’t be the perfect mother.
Key Takeaway
Parenting is a shared, imperfect journey.
Themes
parenting
self-awareness
love
vulnerability
community support
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
personal confession
advice
When to use this quote
- A parent struggling with emotional availability
- A caregiver seeking external help for a child’s needs
- A family discussing role expectations
Key Concepts
identity
intergenerational dynamics
Practical Applications
- Encourage open dialogue about parenting limits
- Build a support network of mentors
Questions to Reflect On
- How can families balance love with realistic expectations?
- What resources help fill parental gaps?
A Different Perspective
The speaker’s self‑deprecation may discourage confidence in her caregiving abilities.
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