I Have Taken The Pledge. Wanna Join Me?

As some of you may already know, I am a contributor at …And Nobody Told Me. One of the other whip-smart ladies who writes for that site, Elizabeth Flora Ross, has created The Mom Pledge.

The Pledge seeks to create a community of mothers who support each other, instead of judge. And this is something that I think is so, so important. Especially in the age of the internet when we don’t have to be immediately and directly confronted with the consequences of our words. This element of anonymity can be disastrous.

Women can be dickwads too...

It is easy to tear others down when they make choices that are contrary to how we would do things. In some ways, it helps us feel a bit better about our own choices…we may think that if HER choices are wrong, then OUR choices must be right. And so we judge. We think that we would do it different. smarter. BETTER.

But that is black and white thinking. It leaves no room for life. In thinking this way, we only belittle our own integrity, and we miss the opportunity to create a community: a community of shared experiences and never-ending support. A community that accepts that there are multiple, valid ways to raise children, and that each one of us has something to offer and to learn at any given moment in time.

THE MOM PLEDGE

I am a proud to be a mom. I will conduct myself with integrity in all my online activities. I can lead by example.

I pledge to treat my fellow moms with respect. I will acknowledge that there is no one, “right” way to be a good Mom. Each woman makes the choices best for her family.

I believe a healthy dialogue on important issues is a good thing. I will welcome differing opinions when offered in a respectful, non-judgmental manner. And will treat those who do so in kind.

I stand up against cyber bullying. My online space reflects who I am and what I believe in. I will not tolerate comments that are rude, condescending or disrespectful.

I refuse to give those who attack a platform. I will remove their remarks with no mention or response. I can take control.

I want to see moms work together to build one another up, not tear each other down. Words can be used as weapons. I will not engage in that behavior.

I affirm that we are a community. As a member, I will strive to foster goodwill among moms. Together, we can make a difference.

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So take the pledge. Spread the word. Visit the Pledge Campaign page for more information!