Parenting is choosing life, being brave, seeking selflessness, loving and providing for another who needs you. Yes, this is a big decision that will mean answering many questions. Questions are good! You don’t have to know all the answers today, with time the answers will come.
Some questions you might be asking and answers to think through about parenting:
Am I ready for the commitment, the responsibility, and the reality of being a parent?
This is a question every new parent faces. It can be a very overwhelming and stressful thought! It may cause you to look at your current circumstances and panic—to think “I am NOT ready!” However, many of life’s twists and turns and unexpected circumstances work out so differently from how we imagine them. Remember, you do have options, and no one is ever perfectly ready!
How do I tell me family?
Keep calm and stick to the simple facts. It is important to tell your parents and other family members, giving them the opportunity to help you during this season in your life. They may react well and be there for you in a supportive manner. Or they may react badly. This may be something you anticipated, but try not to be disheartened.
Where will I live and how will I support myself?
Sometimes the way ahead looks bleak, with no obvious answers. However, as you take each step forward, things begin to slot themselves into place. Having someone to help you problem solve these types of challenges is exactly what our Hope Center staff is here for! Contact us today to begin looking at all of your options. Often the best and most creative solution is only one conversation away.
Can I be a single parent?
Yes, you can! We are not saying this will be easy or that being single is the most ideal way to start a family, but none of us follows the same pattern in life. Each of us is unique, and we can do most anything we set our minds to. You will likely find support from family, friends, and neighbors. And in today’s world there are many new options and resources available to you.
What will my future look like?
You will have a child to share life’s journey. You will be someone’s mum or dad. You will be loved and have the opportunity to pass on all the lessons that you have learned in life to your child. You will be able to help them start their own journey. You will not bear the sadness of wondering what your child would have looked like or how they will turn out. No one knows exactly what your future will look like, but it will be filled with love and not regrets.
What about the father?
Have you spoken to your baby’s father? It is a really good idea to include him in the knowledge of your baby. He may react a whole number of ways; so it is good to prepare yourself and to be ok with however he reacts. He may be in shock and remain silent. He may run away. He may suggest an abortion or offer to pay for an adoption. He may be happy and offer to help with the pregnancy and to desire to be involved in the baby’s life. Whatever you may think his reaction will be or should be, give him the opportunity to be a dad if so desires.
If you are the father and are reading this, you may have just been told your girlfriend is pregnant. You may be afraid she is going to have an abortion. Take a deep breath, and stay calm. You are not alone. All the emotions and questions that are running through your head right now are totally normal. Please, know that the Hope Center is here for you too. Call us if you would like to talk confidentially. Remember, your girlfriend is full of conflicting emotions, just as you are. She may need your friendship and support more than ever. You are not powerless. You can make a difference!
Questions are good! They are important. We are not telling you that this is going to be easy. We are telling you that parenting is going to be worth it! Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is deciding forever to have your heart walk around outside of your body in the form of another person.
Call us today to set up an appointment so we can talk more about all of your options, including what parenting will look like for you and your new little one.