SAHM = Metal Mama

Being a mom, especially a full-time SAHM mom, is forging me in the fires of holiness. I don't want to sound holier-than-thou - or overly dramatic - but being at home with my children full-time is making me exercise virtues to an extent to which I never experienced before:

Faith: That I will be given the graces to raise two of God's children in His way.

Hope: That I will do His will (and a good job).

Love: That I can be a conduit for God's love for His (my) children.

And last, but not least, patience! (I know that's not one of the cardinal virtues, but it is for me!)

In the office, if I asked a co-worker to hand me a cup, s/he would. If I ask my 19-month-old daughter, it's either a grinning "No! No! No! Noooooo!" or she runs full-tilt in the opposite direction giggling. It may be funny once, but 36 times in a row, it can get frustrating.

I feel like every day I'm a piece of metal forged in those fires of holiness, pounded by my own limitations, imperfections and life's challenges. Sparks fly and I can get red-hot, but in the process I am shaped into God's design little by little, day by day.

I feel like the days with my children are making me stronger in these virtues. I love more easily. I have a bit more patience. I pray with faith harder than ever before.

Mother Angelica once said: "We're all called to be saints." I always thought that was a neat saying, not quite applicable to my everyday life. I get it now.