Change. It’s inevitable. It’s guaranteed. However, what happens when there is so much change that nothing seems to remain constant? The world as we knew it changed in what seemed like the blink of an eye. We went from our daily routines of going to work, running errands, coming and going as we please, or at least knowing that we could and then all of a sudden, all of those things came to a screeching halt.

For me personally, my daily routine changed. I found myself awaiting a daily update at 2:00P EST from Governor Mike DeWine to find out firsthand what changes have been made or will be made in the coming days and how they will impact me and those connected to me. I was suddenly working from home. I was suddenly stripped of the ability to come and go as I please. Suddenly the things that I had just assumed that I could do when I wanted were no longer options. My ideal birth experience was snatched from me.

Change is to be expected, we change jobs, we change schools, we change hairstyles, and so much more. We expect change and adjust accordingly, some better than others, but this time has been even more intense for those of us that are expecting, especially those of us that are expecting our first baby or babies. I have dreamt of becoming a mommy since I was a little girl, I had all these dreams and expectations of what I would do to prepare, who would be at the birth and who would visit and the list goes on. Aside from knowing that he will be born every other plan has been thrown out of the window and I am forced to accept this major change.

This time of change has been challenging in many ways. It is easy to focus on the negative, however, this time has also presented opportunities for everyone to change for the better. This period of isolation has allowed me to see myself in a different light while highlighting some of my strengths and weaknesses. I am more appreciative of my family and friends and I realize that I need to be more intentional about spending quality time with them. I have also learned that I have poured myself out so much that I don’t have anything left to give myself, making it a must that I practice self-care. We have seen a lot of bad from the sudden change in our way of life, but don’t forget to look for the good too.

I would be lying if I said that I am not sad that my first birth experience will likely not go as I had dreamt for many years, however, I am looking for the positivity in the change of plans. As we prepare for the arrival of our little king, I am embracing the idea that my husband and I will get to fully enjoy the birth experience and bond with Solomon without a lot of outside distractions. We will be able to transition into parenthood in our own way without the influence of so many well-intentioned loved ones.

Whether you are expecting or not I challenge you to embrace the change that has taken place and find the good. Find what brings you joy and peace. Put some thought into how you can be intentional about spending quality time with your loved ones. Take some time to self-reflect and better yourself. Change can be bad, but change can also be good; find the good.

 

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

-Jeremiah 29:11 NIV