Motherhood Is Better Than Advertised

In the deluge of advertising before Mother’s Day, companies offer a defeated image of motherhood, even as they claim to want to help their customers celebrate moms. The American mother is apparently a disheveled, stressed-out woman looking for a glass of wine. Most gift guides focus on pampering: coupons for spa days, manicures and pedicures. The underlying message is that all mothers want is a break from their children.

I recently passed a store that was advertising a sale on wine tumblers. The sign in the window said, “Moms only.” The term “mom” is often charged with negativity. Phrases like “mom body” or “mom brain”—being unable to remember obvious or basic details—suggest damage. Given the connotations, I’ve even wondered if I could avoid using the term “mom” and opt for the more neutral “parent” when referring to myself. But then what would my kids call me?