In her candid reflection on motherhood, Vaishali Shroff, a children's author, shares the complexities of raising her two sons—a pre-teen and a teen. She expresses the constant guilt of questioning her parenting choices, feeling like a failure at times, and the emotional chaos that comes with teenage years. Shroff highlights that while societal expectations often dictate how mothers should behave, it is essential for mothers to maintain their individuality. She recalls her own mother's juggling act between family and personal aspirations, emphasizing the importance of self-care. Despite the challenges, she finds solace in the deep connection with her sons, who, despite their teenage antics, provide moments of affection that reaffirm her role as a mother. Ultimately, she concludes that while she may not be a perfect parent, her efforts are sufficient and meaningful.