I got home and pulled the mail out of the mailbox. I saw there was a package from my friend, Brenda. She sent such a kind, thoughtful card ...it was as if she knew what I was going to need to hear today! Brenda and I went through our IVFs together. We shared the stresses of the cycles, our hopes that our procedures would work, and our sadness when they did not. Right now Brenda is gearing up for her 3rd IVF cycle and I hope, with all of my heart, that this one works for her and her husband. They have been through so much and I know that she will make a wonderful, amazing mother.
Inside the package was a silver bracelet with a leather cord. It's just beautiful. The inscription on the bracelet reads, "Embrace the Journey." In the card, Brenda reminded me of the good things we've experienced through all of this as we have been on our journeys toward parenthood.
So even when I am reminded of our struggles (like I was reminded today) I need to remember so many other things, too:
...How I am so lucky to have such an amazing group of friends that understand and care. I wouldn't know you if it weren't for all of this.
...How I have grown more compassionate over these past few years.
...How our family supports us and loves us.
...How my husband and I are able to laugh at things that we never could have laughed at before.
...How we have gotten closer as a couple during something that can really pull couples apart.
Most of all, I need to remember that all of this is part of the journey to find our child. I really think that every part of that trip is going to make it even more wonderful when we finally meet him or her.
We'll remember all of the bumps in the road as well as all of the unforgettable moments. That will make bringing our child home even more special than it will already be.
I was trying to "pose" with the bracelet; I know I look goofy!
9 comments:
Wendy-your bracelet is awesome! What a sweet gift. :-)
I'm sorry about insensitive co-worker comments. Those situations hurt so badly. And, fwiw, I wouldn't have blamed you for leaving the room-I have done that!
Lots of hugs, hon.
Sorry for the craptastic day, Wendy. I'm not above "accidentally" kicking people in the shins under the lunch table. (-;
I'm glad that I could help you smile and love that you were able to find so many more reasons to smile too. I'll be right here for all the bumps and bruises as well as screaming from the rooftop when you get "the" call. I'd be lost without ya, friend.
Much love to you.
The adoption journey is so hard because we don't have any physical indicator of our process to show people. It's not like with a pregnancy where there is an expected in and a physical reminder of our "progress." Sometimes I feel like I want to wear a button that says "I'm adopting" so that every one knows; and then later "pregnant on paper."
What a God-send your friend is. It's amazing how friends, our wonderful angels here on earth, seem to spring up at just the right moments. I LOVE that bracelet. What a thoughtful gift.
Hope your week gets better.
Erica
WOW - how beautiful! that is a GREAT friend :)
That is an awesome bracelet. What a great friend you have. Its a good message to remind ourselves of...we do need to embrace this journey. I pray for a quick and perfect match for you.
I bought that same bracelet a few weeks ago. I love it. The journey is hard and it seems like it won't ever get easier. But since we are on it, we might as well embrace it, huh? Good luck!!
"Embrace the Journey"...I just love that sentiment! Usually, I think that the journey is mostly not so fun, but when I think about it, there has been positive things to come out of it. I'm sorry about that day not being so great, but what a nice and thoughtful gift to come home too. You are so fortunate to have great friends such as this one.
Such good words of wisdom! Things I need to remember each and every day. I too understand the insensitive co-worker thing, just wish they would realize what their saying...or think before they talk!
The bracelet from you friend Brenda (funny, my biggest supporter is Brenda too) is gorgeous! Where do you think I could get one of those! :)
Hi I just happened upon your blog.We are currently waiting to be match to adopt domestically again. We used a scrapbook for our first adoption. Our lil girl is now 3. Your scrapbook looks very good. Hope you find a lil one very soon. Best of luck!
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