Moms who leave: Do commitments trump desires?

I’m convinced all mothers have those moments when they look at the Cheerios strewn on the floor and the kids fighting over the remote and think, “Is this really it? Is this really my life?”

Come on — we’ve all been there.

But most mothers get over that moment of shock, pick themselves up and get to work. They realize that the happy, running-through-a-meadow moments of motherhood are few and brief, but they’re worth it.

I’ve been thinking lately about the mothers who can’t seem to shake this feeling of regret — for lost loves, for lost opportunities and for lost youth. These mothers don’t want the mommy life anymore and leave.

No one should stay in a truly unhappy or unhealthy relationship, and I’m all for women striving to be the best version of themselves. But to me, becoming a mother means realizing that I’m not the most important person in my life anymore — and that’s OK.

What do you think — Is it OK to bolt for greener pastures and personal fulfillment? Or at some point, do the commitments and choices of becoming a mother trump our personal desires?

(Note to my husband: I am not leaving you, this is just an interesting topic I’ve been thinking about.)