Sharing The Journey

When we first started out this journey, I felt the need to share our whole story with all my friends and family. I wanted to share for support. I wasn't looking for approval, I just wanted to know that if I fell from failure, someone was there to catch me. I wanted to share to other infertiles so they know they aren't alone; we aren't alone.
When you struggle with infertility, you think it affects just that, your fertility. But the reality is, it affects so much more.
Infertility takes a toll on your friendships, relationships, marriage, finances, sleep and really the ins and outs of your daily life. It dictates your schedule and your sex life. It consumes your every word, thought and your whole being. Infertility takes from you living your best life, while you try to create life. Everything requires timing and plans. A six to eight week plan of life to be available at the drop of a dime to just have a chance at creating a new life. Just a chance. I personally would have to drive 2 hours both ways to receive care. That's not something quickly accomplished on a well planned lunch break between myself and my husband.
Then there came a point that I decided to go quiet in my journey. I have stopped sharing my story to friends as it plays out. Narration has ceased as life continues on. Why you may ask? Why would I give up having more support during such a hard time? 
I didn't think that sharing my story would create more hardships in my life. I was hoping it would promote a sense of understanding. I didn't think it would bring unwarranted opinions and comments instead of unconditional support.
The point of me sharing my story wasn't for people to feel bad for us. It wasn't to get sympathy or empathy. The point of me sharing was to show what great gifts and blessings the world gives you each day that should never be taken for granted. The man in the wheelchair reminds us to be thankful for our legs and adventure although we may get tired. The woman in bed with cancer reminds us to live each day to its fullest because who knows what tomorrow might bring. The couple with infertility reminds those who don't struggle, or who already have children to sit back and enjoy the blessings life has given to them.
Infertility teaches you many things. It teaches you patience. It teaches you to be grateful. It teaches you how to smile on the outside while you break on the inside. Infertility can also show you who can be there for you in times of need and struggle. It shows you who is there to be your rock and who is willing to pick you back up. Infertility has taught me many things. It taught me when to share and when to celebrate alone. Infertility has broke my marriage and then build it up stronger than it has ever been. Infertility took from me my whole life, then handed me a new one with a better outlook and more insight to what living life truly means.
Infertility has taken so much from me, but also given in return. We all live our own struggle. We all find hardships. But never forget there is still so much in life to be grateful for.