When we don't like to face up to hard facts, we use soft words. We do not speak about killing a baby within the womb, but about "termination of potential life." Words are often multiplied to try to cover dark deeds.
Neal A. MaxwellRead
Some mothers in today's world feel "cumbered" by home duties and are thus attracted by other more "romantic" challenges. Such women could make the same error of perspective that Martha made. The woman, for instance, who deserts the cradle in order to help defend civilization against the barbarians may well later meet, among the barbarians, her own neglected child.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the struggle of mothers balancing home duties with outside challenges and warns of the potential neglect of their children's needs.
Neal A. Maxwell's quote reflects on the dilemma faced by some mothers who, feeling overwhelmed by domestic responsibilities, seek fulfillment in external pursuits. He cautions that in their pursuit of more 'romantic' or challenging roles outside the home, they may inadvertently neglect their primary role as caregivers, leading to painful realizations about their own children later in life. The metaphor of meeting a neglected child among the 'barbarians' serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of misplaced priorities.
Themes
MothersFamilyNeglectPrioritiesBalance
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be shared during a Mother's Day speech to highlight the sacrifices mothers make.
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