Faithful Friends: The Best Medicine

First and foremost, I’d like to thank everyone who has taken the time to stop by the blog. I’m overwhelmed by the amount of support and encouragement I received in the last week alone! Thank you friends!

I’ll be the first to say that the last few years of my life have been more difficult than I could have imagined. Although I may seem strong now, God knows I’ve had days that were dark and hopeless.  However, I love that infertility has brought me several things I wouldn’t have otherwise, like an amazing reliance on God and his will, a deep loving relationship with my amazing husband and a wonderful bond with my family and friends. Some friends who will be cherished souls to me forever. You know who you are!!!

So here are some words of advice to those who are struggling. You probably shouldn't tell everyone about your fertility challenges. But keeping it completely secret is not only unnecessary but psychologically painful. When you keep something like that a secret, it festers and the anger and shame about your condition just grows and grows. Shame is like mold -- it thrives in darkness. Exposing your fertility challenges to even one friend will shine a bit of light on the situation. Carefully consider the friends and family members who you think can be supportive and just let it out. If the person you tell reacts badly, don't let that stop you. Try someone else until you find one person who you can be authentic with. I promise you, it'll be a relief to not hold it all inside.

Going through infertility is hard and we need people who love us through it. Unfortunately, many couples can feel ashamed and alone, so they don’t share what they are going through with others. Friend if this is you, I urge you to open up!  I know that it can be hard, but it gives the Body of Christ a chance to rally around us, love us and carry us when we are down.

I’ve been extremely blessed with a tremendous amount of support from my wonderful family and friends. I remember the day I shared my story with my Ladies’ Home Group and it was a huge turning point for me. There’s something so beautiful about other women praying for you and standing in the gap for you when you are feeling helpless and weak. I knew that God had an amazing purpose for me and I felt uplifted. I am grateful to be surrounded by such inspiring God-loving women!

In conclusion, regardless of what tragedy or struggle may come your way, don’t go through it alone! First and foremost, surrender your pain and confusion to God and allow him to comfort you. Secondly, open up to friends and family, you may be surprised by how uplifting a hug and a prayer can be!