If you are like many people, it is difficult for you to share your real, raw feelings with others. You may feel it is a sign of weakness to let others see your pain, your tears, your raw grief. But it’s not. Allowing yourself to be honest with your hard feelings is a sign of strength and trust in your loved ones. There is nothing wrong with being open and genuine with those who love and care about you. And you might find yourself experiencing joys and gifts you never expected.
Gifts such as…
• the friend you barely knew who steps up and is supportive in ways you never imagined.
• the coworkers who made sure you felt supported and cared about when you returned to work after your loss.
• the family member or other loved one who shared her own story of loss that you knew nothing about before. • realizing how much others love and miss your baby, too.
• the lifelong connections you might make with others who can relate to what you are going through because they have also been there.
• relationships that end up stronger because you shared your difficult feelings and thoughts.
• the relief you feel when you share your story with someone who genuinely cares about you and makes you feel understood and valued.

It takes a great deal of courage to reach out for help when you need it. You may have the urge to keep your real thoughts, fears and emotions to yourself, but try to fight that urge. Start with one person you feel safe sharing with. And don’t let those who may not be as supportive keep you from reaching out to others. When you do reach out, you might be surprised by the gifts and joys that come into your life when you allow yourself to be real and vulnerable.

And you deserve all of them.