Mother’s Day brings a rush of emotions for me. This is a difficult piece to write and my eyes are full of tears. Still, I’m writing it for the person who might need these words today. Here is part of my story about infertility and how it shaped my path to motherhood.
Motherhood = Time
My path to becoming a mother stretched over a decade. I endured hundreds of injections, three surgeries, and innumerable appointments. I became my own advocate, traveled out of state for care, and wept many tears. I experienced miscarriages and sought comfort in prayer and visits to the temple. At times I felt utterly confused, yet I kept moving forward, determined to bring my three miracle children into this world.
Motherhood = Gratitude
The word “gratitude” barely captures how I feel about being a mother. It is the small spark that became a great fire. I could write endlessly about the small, miraculous moments that made motherhood possible for me. On days like Mother’s Day I also feel a deep empathy and guilt for those who endure the same grueling process without the outcome they longed for. I see you, and my heart is with you.
Motherhood = Loneliness
The infertility journey can feel isolating, confusing, and shrouded in shame. People sometimes ask, “Why put yourself through this? Why not adopt? Don’t you already have enough children?” But infertility is intensely personal and private. It’s hard to explain or to answer these questions. Often what someone needs most is a hug, a listening ear, or simple understanding.
Motherhood = Faith
Faith carried me through those years of hardship and continues to guide me as a parent. Faith can be both comforting warmth and a purifying flame. Trials can feel like both—burning and refining—but leaning into that fire provided me with resilience and calm as I raised my children.
I know this isn’t a typical Mother’s Day post. If you’ve read my Sunday Stories before, you know I’ve shared many memories about my mamma, my nonna, and other women who influenced me deeply. This post is different; it is meant for one person in particular.
For the One…
This is for the one who is struggling today. I see you. If today is hard, that is okay. Keep going—there are angels and possibilities waiting for you, and your path to mothering may unfold in ways you can’t yet imagine.
PLEASE SHARE this with a friend who needs encouragement. The journey feels much less lonely when someone walks beside you. Email me if you need someone to talk to during this time.
Written with Amore,
Elena
More stories for you about my mamma for Mother’s Day
My Working Mamma
Hands
Let’s sprinkle a little food into this story with favorite recipes from my mamma Roberta.
Easy Italian Pear Cake (Torta con le Pere)
Lemon Yogurt Loaf Cake (blueberries)
Shrimp and Broccoli Pasta in Cream Sauce
Italian Frittata with Peas, Onions, and Ricotta
Authentic Pasta Carbonara — Italian Recipe (Video)
Spaghetti Frutti di Mare (Seafood Pasta)
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