RRP: How do you balance motherhood and being the Development Coordinator at Montgomery Christian School?
Ann: Balance in life is hard. Balancing work and motherhood can feel like a tightrope walk. Some days it is scary, and I slip, but the key to succeeding is practicing the rhythms of the walk. The rhythm of spending time alone with God and orienting my life to the Bible is vital to being a good mom. Also, it is prioritizing my family and household obligations and work responsibilities. Being intentionally prepared/organized for that tightrope sure makes for an easier walk. Also, knowing that there are seasons is critical. Sometimes my focus needs to be centered on a family situation, and other times work requires a lot of time/attention.
RRP: You have been living with a disability for 38 years. Can you tell us about that?
Ann: At the age of 16, I was diagnosed with a rare bone cancer. Thankfully amazing doctors at the University of Florida’s Shands Hospital saved my leg. My beloved doctor Bill Enneking performed an allograft procedure in which he first used donor bone to replace seven inches of my distal femur. Afterward, I had an additional eight surgeries during my high school years. (I have also had a few more surgeries in adulthood.) For a dozen years, I walked on crutches or a cane. But today, I simply have a slight limp, limited function, and lymphedema in my left leg.
RRP: How did your cancer impact motherhood in a positive way?
Ann: This journey has been amazing. Yes, there have been/are numerous challenges, but far more blessings have come out of the cancer diagnosis. I have seen how GOD truly loves and has a plan for us. I have experienced unimaginative peace and strength. As a mother, it has allowed me to identify with others who are hurt and provide encouragement. My leg, like motherhood, reminds me to creatively overcome obstacles and to persevere with grace.
RRP: How do you mother well when raising three children with different personalities?
Ann: Our three, just like all children, are created with different gifts and personalities and are deeply loved. Striving to embrace and cherish each character means intently studying each one and discovering what reaches each of them. My mother, Ann (Tankersley) Phillips, has been an amazing example.
RRP: How did you handle your children’s transition into adulthood?
Ann: Handling these transitions required a lot of love, grace, forgiveness, and laughter. The biggest challenge is navigating the different stages of parenting- training, disciplining, coaching, and befriending. There were days of sadness for me when they left home and giddy excitement as they faced new chapters. But the key is finding joy and peace in each stage.
RRP: What was the most difficult challenge you faced as a mother?
Ann: Watching our children hurt. My heart aches when they have struggled for whatever reason. As a mom, I want to fix things, but allowing the children to face difficulties has been necessary.
RRP: You mentioned that being a mother is the most incredible and challenging journey. What advice would you give to new moms?
Ann: During my first pregnancy, an older lady with a beautiful Southern drawl stated, “Motherhood will beat the selfishness out of you.” She was right! Some of those early sleepless nights felt like a beating, and some of those heartbreaking later days felt like a pummeling. Being parents is our greatest gift, privilege, and development tool. So for new moms, I would love to sit, grab a cup of tea/coffee, chat and affirm them. Regarding giving advice, love your husband, embrace your newest adventure, and choose health and rest.
RRP: With all adult children, is there anything you would have done differently and why?
Ann: I would be more patient and relaxed. I would focus on my heart and not external things. My children do not need my judgment or monologues; they need a listening ear, snippets of wisdom, and loads of encouragement.
RRP: How has being a mother impacted your personal and professional life?
Ann: Being a mother has given me better perspective, understanding, and abilities. Motherhood is sacrificial love. It requires looking at the needs of others instead of focusing on the self. Having this mindset has profoundly changed me. Parenting has been the most challenging job of my life and has shown me my weaknesses and stretched me. I think this stretching can produce perseverance, character, and hope.
Ann Amster has been married to Troy Amster for 31 years. They have three children: Jack (26), Thomas (24), and Mary Evelyn (21).
