Smokey the Bear, Yogi the Bear and the newest addition to the family, the Mama Bear.
Not to be messed with, the Mama Bear is a fearless and protective mother who would basically maul for her cubs. Now, I am not speaking of our furry friends who walk on four legs, but rather a woman who loves her children with an animalist fierceness. Though mothers have always watched out for their children, it hasn’t been until the past couple of years that this term has really become more solidified in our culture.
With any trend comes with the super fans, the ones who take things too far, remember fidget spinners?! It’s become such a norm for people to be rude that “going mama bear” has been deemed acceptable. Ladies, we have to remember that we are not wild animals. You can’t just react without thinking and blame it on being a “Mama Bear.” Trust me, I totally understand the need to protect one’s child, but there is a time and place when and where to be a mama bear!
First, we need to remember to be a sensible mama bear. Look at the situation from an outsider’s perspective before you attack. Is the little boy who took your son’s toy on the playground really a threat? If someone calls on another child in class and not yours, is it really going to be the end of the world? You don’t want to be labeled as someone who flies off the handle at the drop of a hat or the neighborhood drama queen. Keep the mama drama to a minimum!
Then, be a courageous mama bear. If you’ve stepped back and still think something’s not right, then act! Don’t be scared to watch out for your own. It’s not always a wrongdoing. Sometimes needing to go mama bear means requesting your child’s teacher challenge them more in school, or holding your son’s hand when they have to go to the doctor. Be that voice and comfort for them when they can’t handle a situation on their own.
Finally, if it calls for it, be a defending mama bear. When we think of mama bears, security and protection are synonymous with the term. If the situation calls for it, girl, let loose the claws. As a last resort, show your animal side when real danger is near. The man following you in the store, the stranger at the park asking a few too many questions. Stand up and make your voice heard. It’s perfectly acceptable to ask someone to step back and please leave you alone.
No matter how you choose to react to a situation, know that you’re doing the best thing for your child. You’re an awesome mom and are doing the right thing for your cubs. Stop, think, and then act! Only you know when and where to be a mama bear!
mama <3 cub
