Ruby Wax: 'I have to keep reminding myself that I am their mother. Sometimes we are sitting at home and I feel like we are waiting for our mom to come home.'

I have to keep reminding myself that I am their mother. Sometimes we are sitting at home and I feel like we are waiting for our mom to come home.

The quote by Ruby Wax, "I have to keep reminding myself that I am their mother. Sometimes we are sitting at home and I feel like we are waiting for our mom to come home," captures a sentiment many parents can relate to. It highlights the struggle of balancing personal identity with the demanding role of being a parent. With such a straightforward interpretation, it's essential to delve deeper and explore an unexpected philosophical concept to bring intrigue and depth to the article.While the quote initially expresses the notion of feeling detached from one's parental role, it also raises the question of existential authenticity. This concept, rooted in philosophy, explores the idea of being true to oneself and living a life aligned with our core values and beliefs. The quote, in this context, denotes a disconnection between one's self-identity and the societal expectations associated with motherhood.In our modern society, individuals often face the challenge of maintaining a unique sense of self while fulfilling various societal roles. Parenthood, in particular, demands a significant portion of our time, energy, and emotional resources. As Wax suggests, it's easy to lose sight of our own identity in the process, feeling like we're waiting for our true selves to return. This internal struggle can lead to a sense of alienation or an existential crisis.On one hand, societal expectations and cultural norms dictate that parents should fully immerse themselves in their role, sacrificing personal aspirations and desires. This expectation might resonate with those who find fulfillment in nurturing their children and devoting themselves entirely to their family. However, for others, the pressure to conform to societal expectations can generate an internal conflict.Existentialism, a philosophical perspective, emphasizes the importance of individuality and authenticity. It argues that true meaning in life is found in embracing one's uniqueness and taking responsibility for shaping one's own destiny. From this standpoint, the struggle depicted in Wax's quote becomes an opportunity for introspection and self-discovery.By acknowledging the sensation of waiting for our "true selves" to return, we open up the possibility of realigning our sense of self with our parental role. It involves examining our values, passions, and aspirations, and finding ways to integrate them into our lives as parents. This process can contribute to our overall well-being and fulfillment, benefiting both ourselves and our children.It's important to note that this philosophical exploration does not diminish the significance of parenthood or imply that the role should be cast aside. Instead, it encourages parents to cultivate a sense of wholeness by nurturing their own individuality alongside their responsibilities as caregivers.Ruby Wax's quote serves as a relatable reminder for parents who may feel detached from their own identity amidst the demands of parenting. By incorporating the concept of existential authenticity, we can expand the conversation to include a broader exploration of personal identity and self-fulfillment.Ultimately, this introspective journey allows us to redefine the parameters of parenthood and find a balance that harmonizes our individuality and our roles as caregivers. It encourages us to embrace the complexities of our lives, challenge societal expectations, and create meaningful, authentic connections with both ourselves and our children. So, let's take a moment to reflect on Wax's quote and continue nurturing our own identities as we navigate the beautiful yet sometimes challenging journey of parenthood.