Connection is a beautiful thing. It means the act or state of connecting. I would add that it is the result of intentional sharing and support. It also refers to a circle of friends or associates and I am blessed to be a member of such a circle.
My circle includes friends from elementary and high school. I’ve got friends from my days at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and bonds I’ve made through Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Incorporated. I’ve been so blessed to add ladies I’ve worshipped with through the years to my circle of friends. I’ve met great people at the different schools where I have taught and while learning to ballroom dance. Clearly, I could go on and on…
All of those experiences were ones I intentionally sought out. However, while facing this intense challenge, a great sense of connection has been developed through the experience of infertility. I’ve been deliberate to share my journey with others and it has offered me so much in return.
In the beginning of my journey, I relied on my husband to be my everything. I used him as my sounding board in moments of frustration. I asked his opinions on matters I didn’t understand. I leaned heavily on him for support in moments when my spirit was low. As much as I tried to be strong, I needed to talk and I needed someone to listen.
I thank God for Rodney, his care for me, and our journey together. He freely gave me all he had and I am so appreciative. On the other hand, I needed more than he could give. I was processing the journey with all of its trials and triumphs and I was not truly available to return the favor to my husband. Epic FAIL!
What began to lighten the load was connecting with others who were battling infertility. I was able to give Rodney a little more room to process his own set of emotions when I found another outlet for mine. This looked like connecting with others through online support groups and eventually a local support group here in Detroit.
Sharing in social media groups, on morning conference calls, and monthly meetings offered me a chance to double my joys in celebration and divide the weight of my challenges in half. I can’t imagine enduring these past years without the support they have provided.
We were never meant to face our battles alone. Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NIV The distance that keeps us safe also keeps us alone. We have to allow someone to be close enough that they can lift us when we fall.
While infertility is often regarded as an intimate battle, please consider allowing someone to encourage you while you face it. I’ve heard it said that support groups should be mandatory and I agree. We all need a safe place to share our hearts when they cry out to be heard. Lift up your voice in prayer, write in your journal, and chat on social media. But, seek out the solace the can be found in others as we connect.
HOPE: Filled Thought: Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification. Romans 14:19 NIV
Prayer: Thank you Lord that you provide connection through your love. Help us to bind together with chords that strengthen us. Allow us to share our challenges and celebrate the champions we are. We receive your love with joy and it is so. Amen.
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