As told to Brandi Lytle
Elizabeth found out at age 18 that she would not be able to have biological children. Despite this, she remained tender and has found her worth in giving back. Let her story inspire you to love…
What difficulty were you struggling with?
When I was a teenager, I was told that I would never be able to have children and that I was going through menopause at age 18. I was struggling with the ability to view myself as a complete woman because I would not be able to have children of my own.
Why had you lost your joy?
I had lost myself because I viewed my ability to give birth as the only reason I should be around, but that is not true. I realized that giving birth did not give me value or tell me that I am worthy.
What good thing (no matter how big or small) helped you to start focusing on the positive?
The good thing I started to focus on is helping others one small step at a time.
For example, I would give exceptional service to customers at work. I always tried to compliment others or help others, regardless of how I was feeling emotionally. I took my dog and had him certified as a therapy dog for nursing homes. After many years, I followed my dream of becoming a teacher and help my students as much as I can.
The more I started helping others, the more I realized that I do matter.
What would you like to say to others who are going through the same struggle that you have overcome (or are in the process of overcoming)?
I would like to tell others that I am still learning to deal with the fact that your ability to have children does not give you self-worth. I just recently realized it’s okay to not have a child of my own, but I need to be happy with who I am.
Your meaning is not defined by infertility and childlessness, but by how you contribute to society and being happy in life. You deserve to be happy! Move forward as little or as much as you can every day. Keep trying and never give up.
Elizabeth, thank you for being vulnerable and bravely sharing your story! And thank you for reminding us that all acts of kindness, whether big or small, bring value to our world…
Fabulous one, will you be brave and share Your Good Things Story? To find out how, click here…
Photo Credit: Xochi Romero on StockSnap.io
