As I reflect on the intricacies of balancing work and family life, I am reminded of the wise words of Swami Vivekananda, who once said, "The world is a grand moral gymnasium wherein we have all come to make ourselves strong." The challenge of juggling professional responsibilities with the demands of parenthood is a test of our strength, resilience, and character.

As working mothers, we face a unique set of challenges. We are expected to be both care givers and breadwinners, often with little support. But how do we navigate this complex landscape? How do we ensure that our children receive the attention and care they need while also meeting the demands of our professional lives? The answer, I believe, lies in finding a delicate balance between work and family, one that is tailored to the unique needs and circumstances of each family.

Staying connected with our children in a world that seems designed to pull us apart requires effort and intention. It means being present in the moment, cherishing the small victories and milestones, and communicating openly and honestly with our children. It means cultivating the art of "seva", or selfless service, being attuned to the needs of our children, and being fully engaged with them, even in the brief moments we share together.

The ancient Indian concept of "seva" reminds us that connection is not just about the time we spend with our children but about the quality of that time. It is about being present, attentive, and loving, even in the smallest of ways. As Maya Angelou once wrote, "I've learnt that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Let us, as working mothers, strive to make our children feel seen, heard, and loved, even in the midst of our busy lives.

In the end, it is not about achieving a perfect balance but about embracing the imperfections and uncertainties of modern parenting. As Rabindranath Tagore once wrote, "The butterfly counts not months but moments and has time enough." Let us, as working mothers, cherish each moment, prioritise what truly matters, and find beauty in the delicate dance of connection.