Write@Home
Winter 2015

Motherhood

Becoming a first-time mom in a country far from family has been both a beautiful and overwhelming journey.

Without my usual support system, I think that every little cry from my newborn will feel like a mystery I have to solve on my own. However, I learned that caring for a newborn is less about perfection and more about presence

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What will make all the difference is the kindness and strength of friends and community. The team effort could include bringing meals, holding the baby so I could shower, and reminding the mom that she is doing great even when one could feel unsure. From diaper tips to baby-wearing tricks, friends and community could share wisdom, filling in the gaps that the new family might need to cover. I have learned that taking care of a newborn isn't just about sleepless nights; it's about building trust, embracing small wins, and allowing others to help carry the load. This experience has taught me that love and support can come from many places. It takes a tribe to take care of a newborn.