It is Mother's Day on Sunday and there was a time, after I had come to terms with my drinking, drugging decision of the 70's to have an abortion, that going to church on Mother's day and have the pastor ask the mothers to stand to get their rose, was just too painful.
No one had any idea and it isn't the kind of thing you talk about but it hurts. There are many other moms who have had a miscarriage or are estranged from their kids for whatever reason and they are grieving a loss they can't fix.
You hear people talking to others about "those people" and make judgments about why things have happened or why they made the choices they did, being totally oblivious to the fact that you are right there listening and you were one of "those people."
If you’re watching a mom or grandmother or any woman for that matter who may be carrying the quiet pain of losing a child, living with estrangement, grieving a miscarriage, or mourning after abortion, please know this: her pain is real, and she does not have to carry it alone.
Many women try to numb heartbreak with alcohol. What may look like “just coping” is often a deep cry for comfort, relief, and hope. If someone you love is struggling, the most important thing you can offer is compassionate presence—not judgment.
Start by listening gently. Let her talk without trying to fix everything. Remind her that grief, shame, and heartbreak do not define her, and that healing is possible.
If alcohol has become her way of surviving, she may need more than willpower—she may need loving support, spiritual encouragement, and a safe path forward. Recovery begins with one honest step: admitting she needs help.
Encourage her to reach out for support from a trusted friend, faith leader, recovery coach, counselor, or sober community.
No matter how long she has suffered, there is still hope. With support, grace, and the right help, she can heal, find peace, and begin again. Make this a great weekend for a woman who may be struggling.
I am here to help...refer them to our support groups or my free coaching assessment and newsletters. I would also love to speak at your organization or group.
God loves us all!
Blessings and peace
Linda,
