Dear Baby I Never Got to Meet,
Maybe you were just a line on a Dollar Store test. Maybe you were a special secret only I carried, just like I was the only one every to hold you. But you were mine. Ever so briefly. Not for long enough.
You both gave me faith by your presence, and broke my faith with your absence. Only to learn that same faith was all that would get me through.
I know in my heart of hearts you were perfect. Even if your developmental differences were what kept you from my arms to begin with. I, with some time and perspective, am so glad you didn’t suffer the pain those differences would have brought you just so I could hold you.
But then, I am human and I want to hold you. An ache that is more than need to hold you. Having your siblings makes me know just how special you are. How you unique.
If only I wouldn’t have gone on that run/eaten that food/drank that drink. If only I would have been better maybe I would have gotten to keep you. The nonsensical guilt and blame come in waves just like the grief. The ultimate mom guilt playing a nasty game of tug of war with my heart strings. Even though my rational side knows better.
If only I could talk about you instead of keep you secret. If only I could stop those well meaning strangers with their “helpful” words cut like daggers: “At least you’re young” ” “At least you weren’t far along” “At least you can get pregnant”. Maybe they are right in some ways, but no. You are not ever a “least”, but a MOST my darling.
There are days you are not on my mind as much, and that does not mean I don’t love you or that you don’t matter. It means that you are such a part of my heart that God has granted me the grace to live with the grief of your loss.
But then there are other days. Significant dates. Due date. Loss dates. Birth dates. When swells of emotions threaten to sweep over the flood gates.
I hold on firmly to your sweet siblings as I imperfectly parent them. I would have made just as many mistakes with you, sweet baby. I trust that you are waiting for me in a place where I can hold you one day. Where the whole in my heart left by the absence of you will be filled many times over.
Until that day, sweet baby, I will think about you. I will pray for all of the other mamas and babies. I will grit my teeth as certain calendar dates draw near.
I love you, dear baby. Thank you for making me a mama. Even if I never got to hold you.
XOXO,
Mom
We are so sorry for your loss. This is very beautifully written.
This really struck a chord with me. I have 3 babies in heaven that I never got to meet, never got to hold. But they will forever hold a place in my heart. <3
I’m so sorry for your losses! Those precious babies are so loved!
Beautiful message. Thank you for sharing.
I had an early loss. The first time I ever finally got a positive pregnancy test after a year of infertility and multiple meds and procedures. I totally relate to this letter. Thank you.
Thank you so much for this post! I personally have not experienced the devastation of losing a baby but my heart cannot imagine the pain! I have many friends struggling with recent miscarriages and your post may be one I can refer them to. Your sweet baby was loved and cherished every single day of their existence & thats so special.
Your friends are lucky to have such a kind soul supporting them in their difficult times! Thank you for reading.