You’re not alone.
I discovered that truth in a whole new way when I went to Sitemeter yesterday. Sitemeter tells me where blog readers come from. Not who they are (don’t worry, your privacy’s protected), but where in the world they are. And guess what?
There are infertile couples all around you.
Yesterday, readers came to this site from all over the U.S. They also came from Canada, Australia, Germany, Singapore, India, England, and countries throughout South America.
Why does that matter? Because infertility can be so profoundly isolating, it’s easy to believe you’ve been singled-out for suffering and no else has. Or, that there are a small number of couples going to your particular clinic for help, but few others anywhere else.
That’s a lie. It’s one of many that will fill your mind with doubt about God’s goodness as you struggle to maintain some equilibrium during infertility.
What can you do in response?
Raise Your Hand – Speak up. Self-identify. You won’t face the judgment you fear. You may face some ignorance, or insensitivity – but you’re also much more likely to find comfort, support, and company. Of course, you should choose wisely when deciding whom to tell. But trust me, it’s definitely a risk worth taking.
Find Community – Once you’ve shared your secret, find some community. Not because misery loves company, but because “where two or more are gathered, I will be in the midst of them.” Experiencing the presence of God is the first step toward experiencing the peace that comes with knowing and trusting Him. Find (or create) a community of people who know what you’re facing, and you will have found a powerful source of strength.
Claim God’s Promises – The Bible is full of words of hope and inspiration. They’re not outdated or theoretical, but powerful and real. They can and will speak to your experience, if you ask God to bring His word alive in your story. Set doubts aside long enough to discover God’s promises, invite Him to make them central to your journey, and watch how that changes everything.
Find Hope – Not sure where or how to find God’s promises in scripture? Not sure whether to find a group or protect your privacy? Whatever you decide, make it your goal to find hope for the journey. Pregnant With Hope: Good News for Infertile Couples can help you discover hope in ways that are meaningful and relevant to you and your partner as you make your way.
There are millions of couples around the world making the same journey you are. Some of them are crossing (virtual) paths with you when you come to this site; like you, they come seeking words of inspiration and hope. Millions more have already made the journey; some of them – like me – want to share the good news that the journey won’t last forever, and God is good.
So, remember: No matter how it feels, you are not alone.
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Find more words of encouragement and hope in Pregnant With Hope: Good News for Infertile Couples and at PregnantWithHope.com
Pregnant with Hope 