🌴 We're All In This Together

We’re All In This Together

In the challenges of parenthood it can be easy to feel alone and like you are the only one going through your situation.

This past week, I’ve had numerous reminders that there are so many people going through the same thing, and somehow that makes the hardship that much easier and gives me the strength to carry on in the midst of the challenges.

Whether it’s seeing another parent trying to calm down their kid’s grocery store tantrum or texting a friend in the midst of simultaneous sleepless nights with restless kiddos, it helps me know that we are not unique or alone, we are in the trenches of the beautiful chaos of parenthood together.

This week I was at a splash pad and there was another mom there with her toddler son and baby boy, similar in age to my sons. As hunger and tiredness started creeping in on the kids, we both dealt with crying, hungry babies while the toddlers struggled to listen to instructions and failed to resist the urge to poke and prod their distressed baby brothers. While I don’t wish challenging situations on anyone, something about doing it together gave me a sense of calm as we did our best to meet our kids needs.

I recently joined the Summerville Area Moms Facebook group, and after being in that group for a few weeks I’ve taken away the same sentiment. For every challenge and tricky situation a mom posts about, there are multiple moms going through the same thing who are quick to offer camaraderie and advice when they have it.

When you’re out and about, offer the kind words, the comforting smile, the help you can give when you see another parent in need, because we’re all in this together.

I leave you with one of my favorite poems by David Gate about friendship, Mutual Sanctuary. We all need this sanctuary of friendship as we navigate parenthood.