Ninja Mama

This begins a short series of blogs during which I will attempt to create a visual of what mamas all over the world truly aspire to. What comes to mind when you think about Ninjas?  Wearing all black?  Sneaking around?  Secretive?  What does any of that have to do with being a mama?!

Allow me to explain.

Very little is known about the origin of Ninjas.  They are thought to have began as early as the 6th Century.  But nothing is recorded until the 15th Century when Ninjas became organized and began training specifically for their missions.  Even during the 15th Century and later, the doings of Ninjas is vague.  Much is attributed to legend and myth.  In fact, in one of the more popular historical records, Ninjas were "known" to walk on water, become invisible, and perform magic.  Also, the fact that they existed does not mean that these records include their names.  Ninjas are, by definition, secret agents.

They are not to be confused with Samurais.  Samurais were soldiers that held to rules of honor and duty.  Ninjas held to no code except staying anonymous.  They did whatever it took to accomplish their mission.  And above all, they were not seen accomplishing it.  Never was their motivation praise, fame, respect, gratitude, or reward.  They had a job, they did it, and they moved on to the next job.  Quietly.  There was no mission they would not undertake.  They stayed focused.  Once a Ninja, always a Ninja.

Also, just because they were quiet didn't mean they worked alone.  In fact, a common tactic of Ninjas required one to carry another on his back to complete the mission.  They often helped each other, quietly, with roles understood, neither more important than the other.

Does this sound at all familiar?  As mamas, we will do whatever it takes to accomplish our mission.  Keep our children safe; equip them to fight evil; teach them how to be the best them they can be in a fallen world.  We will clean up poop, cook crazy meals, work into the night, sing until we are hoarse, sit as still as stone, read and read and read until the book falls apart, wake up at the slightest noise, get to the emergency room in nothing but a t-shirt and slippers in milliseconds, sew on patches, kiss boo-boos, dig out boogers, work for camp-money, sell cookies, endure sleepovers, and so on and so on.

Not for thanks.  Not for credit.  Not for reward.  In fact, if that was our motivation, we would be disappointed five minutes into the role of motherhood.  Mamas must be skilled in the gifts of covert, sneaky, and secretive.  Mamas must have mad driving skills and an inner GPS.  Mamas must have energy all the time.  And, Mamas hold to no code of conduct when it comes to protecting our littles.

Once a Mama, always a Mama.  To Ninja Mamas everywhere, keep on keeping on!