When I married my husband, I became a military spouse, taking on a title that I admired and respected but knew little about. I had no idea of the everyday sacrifices it would bring. I knew there would be times that would be difficult, moments he wouldn’t be there to help when I would have to figure things out on my own. He would be gone for special holidays, and there would be memories we would not share.
However, I didn’t realize there would be such a strong community of military spouses around me that would not only help me through the difficult times but also offer advice based on their own experiences. When I became a military spouse, I entered a new lifestyle, but I also joined a lifelong club of other men and women who will move mountains to provide the help and support needed – with no questions asked.
Learning from Women Who’ve Gone Before Me
The advice of seasoned military spouses has been essential for me as I navigate the world of the military and the ups and downs that come with it. In the same way, seasoned mothers in my life – women who have children older than my own who have been through more years of motherhood – give me perspective and clarity when I need it most. Being a military spouse has also shown me how life comes in seasons.
There are seasons of difficulty and seasons of ease, much like the seasons of raising children. I am currently in the time of my life when I have young children at home, but I know it won’t always be that way. However, these are the times when it is especially important for young moms to ask for help – and to have a community they can go to for advice and assistance.
The Importance of Community in Difficult Seasons
Outside of deployments, service members often travel for work or work late, making it difficult for their spouses to balance family life and care for their children. Even when my husband is far from home, however, I still have his support, as well as the support of my family and community.
Being part of a community of military spouses has shown me just how important it is for everyone to have a community around them, especially during challenging times. It reminds me how important it is for people to have community, no matter where they are in their lives – especially young mothers, or women who are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy.
Why Support Changes Everything for Expectant Mothers
To a woman who is going through pregnancy alone and is unsure about what her future might hold, abortion might seem like a reasonable option. It might seem like an easy answer, but the truth is that it leads to heartache and regret.
A peer-reviewed study published in May of 2023 found that the majority of women who had abortions would have instead given birth “if they had received more support from others or had more financial security.” When women feel supported and have a strong community, they gain the extra strength they need to navigate difficult seasons.
Building a Culture of Support for Every Mom
I wish everyone could experience the familial community that the military provides, but the truth is that everyone can. If we actively offer advice and support to people who need it, we can ensure that no one faces challenging seasons of life alone – especially when it comes to the significant change a woman experiences when she becomes a mother.
Whether having children was planned or unexpected, support and words of comfort are essential for new mothers. Creating a community of helpfulness and encouragement can show moms that they will have the strength and help they need to be mothers – and enjoy it.
