I visited a friend earlier this year, when one of my children was going through some real trials. When she asked about my family, I shared that we were having a rough time, but no details. She leaned in and said to me, “It’s harder on the mom, I think.” It was really helpful for someone to acknowledge my pain, the pain from watching someone go through difficult experiences, even the pain of worry, anger (not for the child), and helplessness. Somehow, her words meant that I wasn’t doing it all wrong. I knew my child’s pain was greater than mine, and I couldn’t carry the child away from the trial and make everything better, so I ached inside.
While I will never share the specifics of what happened to our child, and between us, and between God and each of us, I want to share some hope, like my friend gave to me.
Chances are, you are not doing this wrong, if you are feeling pain for a child who is struggling.
Additionally, there are ways to allow the Savior to carry the pain. He is mighty to save, and so kind! One is to search for answers in the scriptures. I spent a lot of time reading the Book of Mormon, combing the passages for insights. There were many answers there. Plead for answers while partaking of the sacrament. I felt specific, clear directions during this sacred time. Pour out your soul in prayer, as often as you need it, and His help will come.
Some quotes that I needed during this difficult time:
(images from Pinterest)