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Parenting
I Can See the Love You Have for Your Baby
by Jamie Peterson
Updated: Aug. 21, 2015
Originally Published: Aug. 9, 2015
I’ve interacted with numerous new moms who often feel overwhelmed, isolated, and sometimes even resentful about their circumstances. On top of those emotions, there’s frequently a cloud of guilt and shame regarding these “negative” feelings. They know they cherish their little ones, yet they find themselves questioning how they can feel sadness and anxiety simultaneously. Common thoughts like, “Why am I not filled with joy?” or “Shouldn’t I just be in bliss?” frequently arise. Some mothers even suffer in silence, believing their guilt prevents them from sharing their struggles.
What many new mothers fail to recognize is that their deep love for their baby, intertwined with fatigue, sadness, loneliness, and guilt, is palpable to those around them. When you’re caught up in the whirlwind of postpartum life, it’s hard to fathom that you can experience both despair and immense love at the same time. Here are a few reflections I’ve gathered from working with so many new mothers:
- When you gently run your fingers through his hair while we chat, I can see how much you love your baby.
- When you plant kisses on her cheek every time you lift her, I can see how much you love your baby.
- When you ask me if you should worry because he hasn’t had a diaper change today, I can see how much you love your baby.
- When you whisper sweet nothings to her in a voice meant just for her, I can see how much you love your baby.
- When you instinctively bring him to your breast at the slightest stir, I can see how much you love your baby.
- When you describe the way she smiles in her sleep, I can see how much you love your baby.
- When you ask me to hold him so you can recharge and be more present for him, I can see how much you love your baby.
- When you reach out for advice because sometimes you just can’t soothe her, I can see how much you love your baby.
Most importantly, when I see you after you’ve stepped into motherhood, I can see how much you love your baby because you’ve transformed. You even have a new glow about you. Your face reflects a new depth of love that it never had before. Even if you’re questioning yourself and can’t see it right now, trust me, that love is there. You will look back on these days and realize that much of what you felt, even the difficult emotions, was part of your journey into understanding what it truly means to love a new life.
If you’re seeking more insights on this journey, check out our post on privacy policies, or for additional resources on pregnancy and home insemination, visit Kindbody’s blog or discover fertility supplements.
Summary
New mothers often grapple with overwhelming emotions, including love, sadness, and guilt. It’s essential to recognize that these feelings coexist, and love for their baby is evident in their actions. By embracing the transformation of motherhood, they can understand their feelings more clearly and appreciate the journey of nurturing a new life.