Reaching Out

This past week, in an effort to find conversations with people who understand where we are, I reached out to two women who have struggled with infertility.  Although I would not consider either of these women close friends, they both graciously shared with me and encouraged me this week.  The "end" of infertility looked very different for these two women...one conceived and carried to term healthy twins using injectables; the other never conceived at all, and she and her husband are beginning the adoption process this January.  Despite their different situations, they each shared jewels of wisdom that I am clinging too during these excruciating days of waiting.

The woman with infant twins reminded me that it's okay to cry and worry, but it is imperative to remember that I am not alone.  When babies come, however that happens, we will appreciate them much more than if they had come easily.

While talking to my friend who is soon to begin the adoption process, it was like I was hearing many of my own thoughts spoken aloud.  She admitted how much it hurt when people refer to children as a gift from God...if God is handing out babies as gifts, why is He withholding them from us?  She explained that even though she has accepted their new path, it still stings to see a pregnant woman, swollen in beautiful anticipation.  But most importantly, she shared with me a breakthrough she had while coming to terms with never being pregnant.  She said that she once believed that the worst thing that could happen to her would be for someone to tell her she could not have children...but she now realizes that the worst thing that could happen is for someone to tell her she could not have her husband.  The love they share is what fuels the desire for children, and that love can be shared with a biological or adopted child equally.  A beautiful thought to carry us through this two week wait!