Peaceful Path Counseling, LLC

Mother's Day was yesterday. While it is a joyous occasion, it can be painful for women who have lost a child or their own mother. But there is a group of women whose loss often goes unrecognized, those who cannot have children. These women often feel deep pain knowing that they will never be mothers. They have lost dreams, feel different from everyone else, feel like they are not women, feel betrayed by their bodies, feel immense guilt for not being able to give their husbands children or their parents grandchildren, are fearful of aging and being alone, and have a hard time making friends because friends their age have children and want to talk about children.

It is a complex loss, that can feel like a death. They often just want to belong, and may look for ways to find comfort and healing. But there is hope, they can find peace and contentment. They can live each day, grateful for their many blessings. But again, that does not make Mother's Day any less painful. So if you know someone who cannot have children, appreciate her for the pet she cares for, the other person's child she loves, the neighbor she checks on, the people at her job she serves, or the husband she is devoted to. Being a mother can look like different things.

Amy Kay, LPC

Each day is a new day.

As summer quickly approaches, take time to slow down. Most of us live life over-booked and over-scheduled. This robs us of joy and peace. What can you take off your plate? Can you leave one day of the week for fun? Taking time to rest does not mean you are lazy. On the contrary, we all need to know how to be still. We all need to relax, rejuvenate, and take in the moment. I always say, less truly is more.

Amy Kay, LPC