8 years ago, i was denying reality. i read and reread the softened pages of my books that said bleeding and even light cramping can be normal in early pregnancy. i took comfort in my nausea, a sure sign that hormones were running strong. i listened desperatly to others tell stories of successful pregnancies after days of bleeding.
then the morning came and my head spun when i let my mind catch up with my body.
i am amazed what september brings. i am amazed that i know exactly what i was wearing, where i was, how it felt to lose that dream. i remember jen looking me in the eye and not telling me it would be okay, but that i could do it. that i was strong and could do it. i endured the pain, the waiting and then the release.
i looked at my daughter’s face, saw my husband pace in front of the windows and the mystery of god was widened.
now i look at micah and know he couldn’t be without that miscarraige. i look at eliza and smile at god’s good sense. i look at naomi and am grateful i knew that ease of carrying a child.
we buried that little star baby as naomi called it. we planted a tree that bore apples. i have my own quiet moment whenever i eat an apple. i nearly blush at my grief, surprised that it still exists.
i had to describe myself as an intro to a parenting talk i gave a few months ago…the journey so far…
as a child I was tender and shy
as a teenager I was wandering pretty far from the shore yet passionate about children
as a college student, I fiercely hoped to be a mother one day
as a newly married woman, I patiently longed to give birth
as a mother of a newborn, I felt I had arrived
as a mother of a toddler, I was preoccupied with wanting another
as a mother of one and pregnant with another, I felt successful
as a mother who miscarried, my world crumbled
as a mother who miscarried, I was determined to have another
as a mother of one and then another beautiful one, I nearly collapsed under the weight of complicated grief
as a mother of two, I survived by a devotion to making life sweet
as a mother of two, life began to feel complete
as a mother of two getting older, my plans were being made
as a mother with plans, I was surprised with a pregnancy
as a surprised mother, I was scared and honored
as a mother of two and then another beautiful one, my cup ran over
as a mother with a full cup, I commit myself to knowing more than what is right in front of me
Love you.
Jen
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As a mother who shares your grief of miscarriage, as well as surprise with a third pregnancy, your post brought tears. Thanks so much, once again. for sharing so openly.
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Powerful and moving. Just wow.
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you live life with such grace — even the darkest, most painful parts.
loving you. . .
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oh my kristin
so beautiful…
never blush at the grief
hold it close as part of who you are
embrace it as you do so well
hugs from far away for you!
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absolutely beautiful.
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we too were crushed with the greif of a miscarraige, and have yet to have success with another pregnancy. I have to say I really love your blog and the great things it shows and shares. I shared it with my mom’s group so other’s could love it and grow from it. It’s was great to know you in high school but I really enjoy reading about the person you have become and the family you have made with Jerry. God Bless.
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That’s amazing.
You. Are. Amazing.
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Strong, yes. And also full of light and wisdom and the most lovely kind of wonder.
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much love.
to you.
much love.
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I’m remembering with you and celebrating your strength and your beautiful family.
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beautiful words to capture the feelings of miscarriage.
i remember every detail of mine too.
so difficult to hurt so much.
it changes everything i felt.
pregnancy is never the same.
much scarier. i tried to feel peace but felt so nervous afterwards.
as always you have such a way with words to say what’s in your head and heart.
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Gina – sigh – somehow I think your babe brought you more blessings and insight into the world then you will ever know. Thank you for posting such personal, raw emotions. Love you.
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