Baskadia

It's been almost 7 years since I became a mother. A journey filled with unexpected moments and emotions, from profound elation to intense fear, from moments of anxiety to intervals of peace. Nights were often accompanied by intrusive thoughts that refused to rest, while the days were adorned with dreams so beautiful that they breathed life into my being.

Despite its isolating aspects, Motherhood led me to forge connections with individuals I never thought I'd connect with otherwise. It's a realm that adds abundant richness to life yet demands its share in return. It's like this never-ending ride of ups and downs, dark patches, and light spots. Sometimes things come one after another; other times, it's all at once. Navigating this tumultuous sea feels like trying to ride a tsunami while still learning how to swim.

My journey propelled me to become a perinatal coach and a volunteer at Postpartum Support International. After listening to and helping hundreds of parents, it lit a fire in me to write this poem. Its verses echo the struggles we endure; struggles often kept hidden due to the shame and guilt stemming from not conforming to an unrealistic and idealized vision of Motherhood