Happy New Year, Mama!
I thought about writing this week’s blog about New Year’s resolutions, or reflecting on the past year, or even writing something about how relieved I am that the holidays are over. But instead, I want to start this year with a message to you.
This year, I want you to know that you aren’t alone. I am here, our volunteers are here, and your fellow mom friends are all here to support you.
The past few days, I’ve been thinking about this song that most of you will know. I heard someone perform it live on a Postpartum Support International webinar and it literally brought me to tears.
I know it wasn’t written about new moms, but I couldn’t help but relate it to how I feel about supporting new moms. So, here are the lyrics – take a read (shortened version) or listen.
“Hold My Hand” by Darius Rucker
With a little love and some tenderness
We’ll walk upon the water
We’ll rise above the mess
With a little peace and some harmony
We’ll take the world together
We’ll take ’em by the hand
‘Cause I’ve got a hand for you
Oh, ’cause I wanna run with you
Yesterday, I saw you standing there
Your head was down, your eyes were red
No comb had touched your hair
I said “Get up, and let me see you smile
We’ll take a walk together
Walk the road a while, ’cause”
I’ve got a hand for you (I’ve got a hand for you)
I wanna run with you
(Won’t you let me run with you babe?)
Hold my hand
Want you to hold my hand
Hold my hand
I’ll bring you to a place where you can be
Hold my hand
Take a moment to let that sink in. Read it again if you want to and let those words fill your heart with hope. Start this new year with courage and when you feel lonely, know that we are here. Only a phone call or text or email away. I want you to go into this year not hesitating to contact us if you want some extra support. My hope is that you will know you are supported at our support groups and find friendships, community, and love in these groups. Overall, I want you to know that you will get well, as Darius would say, “with a little love and some tenderness.”