Category: Uncategorized

Seasons for hope

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Embracing Seasons of Change and Growth: The Beauty in Pain

Life, much like nature, moves through seasons. These seasons are not just parts of the year, but metaphorical stages in our personal journeys. Some seasons are warm and full of joy, while others feel cold and harsh, filled with difficulty and pain. Yet, no season is permanent, and even in the toughest of times, growth is possible. The same way a tree loses its leaves in winter only to bloom again in spring, we too go through times of challenge—seasons of change—that, though painful, also bring about transformation and hope.

The Changing Seasons of Life

Our lives are marked by different seasons: moments of peace and contentment, seasons of struggle, and times of personal growth. The cycles of life, much like the four seasons of the year, remind us that nothing stays the same forever. Some seasons—like summer or spring—feel full of energy, warmth, and promise. We feel in sync with our surroundings and ourselves. But other times, life shifts, and we find ourselves in winter, facing challenges and heartache.

Just as winter can be cold, dark, and barren, so too can the seasons of our lives where we face loss, confusion, or hardship. The relationships we hold dear may experience strain, personal goals may feel out of reach, and sometimes, hope seems like a distant memory. In these moments, it’s easy to wonder if we’ll ever move beyond the coldness or find the strength to begin again.

Growth in the Hard Seasons

Yet, within these darker seasons lies the potential for growth. Trees lose their leaves in winter, but this isn’t a sign of death—it’s part of a cycle of regeneration. The leaves that fall are preparing the tree for new growth in the spring. The tree endures the pain of the winter months, but in that silence, deep changes are happening beneath the surface. Roots grow stronger, and when the warmth of spring arrives, the tree is ready to blossom once again.

Similarly, we are not immune to pain and difficulty. But these seasons of challenge, though difficult, are also times of deep inner work and transformation. Even when we feel lost or weak, we can trust that growth is still happening inside us. Our experiences, though painful, shape us into who we are meant to be, and with time, healing comes.

Marriage and Relationships: A Dance of Seasons

This pattern of seasons is especially evident in relationships, particularly in marriage. At the beginning, a relationship can feel like the fresh blooms of spring: full of hope, excitement, and love. But over time, marriages, like trees, go through periods of difficulty. The carefree, happy days may give way to seasons of conflict, misunderstandings, and even a sense of emotional barrenness. Yet, these seasons, though they may bring pain, don’t signal the end. They are opportunities for deeper understanding, growth, and renewal.

Marriage, like any meaningful relationship, goes through phases. And just as winter can feel isolating and bleak, it can also bring clarity. The couple may need to reconnect, rebuild trust, or rediscover shared dreams. During these moments, patience and commitment are key. The roots of the relationship may need to be nurtured, and even when things seem bleak, the promise of spring—the renewal and blossoming of love—is just around the corner.

Hope in the Midst of Challenge

In these seasons of change and growth, it’s crucial to remember that hope is never truly lost. The winter may feel cold and lonely, but spring always follows. Just as a leafless tree doesn’t mean the tree is dead, a challenging season doesn’t mean that you, or your relationships, are beyond repair. Hope lies in the truth that every season has its purpose, and every pain brings an opportunity for healing and growth.

As we face our own seasons of struggle, whether personal, relational, or even professional, we can find comfort in knowing that transformation is happening. It may not be immediately visible, but just like the tree preparing for new leaves, we too are preparing for a new chapter.

Embrace the Seasons

In the cycle of life, the seasons come and go. There is beauty in each of them, whether it’s the golden hues of autumn or the quiet, starkness of winter. The key is to embrace each season, even the difficult ones, with the knowledge that change, growth, and renewal are part of the journey. Pain, though inevitable, does not have the last word. With patience, hope, and time, we can emerge stronger, more vibrant, and ready for the next season of our lives.

So, when you find yourself in a season of hardship, remember the trees. Even when they are bare, they are not forgotten by the earth. Trust that, like them, you too will grow again.

To love a man

by Mothersense, posted in Messy Life, Uncategorized

November: Men’s Mental Health Month – Breaking the Stigma

November is not just a month for reflection on the changing seasons or the coming holidays. It’s also a time to highlight a critical yet often overlooked issue: Men’s Mental Health. As we approach this month, we should take a moment to examine the pressures that men face, the stigma surrounding mental health, and how we can help break down the barriers to healing.

For many men, mental health struggles are often seen as a sign of weakness—something to be ashamed of. This is especially true in a society where traditional masculinity often discourages vulnerability and emotional expression. Yet, it’s essential to understand that mental health doesn’t discriminate; it affects us all, regardless of gender.

This issue hits particularly close to home for me, as my own husband has shared something deeply troubling. He drives an 18-wheeler for work and has confided in me that he lives with the constant fear of killing someone while driving. The thought of that horrific scene haunts him, knowing he would have to live with the aftermath. This is just one example of the mental struggles men face, yet it’s a conversation too often left in the shadows.

The Stigma Men Face

For many men, asking for help is a monumental task. Society has conditioned them to be strong, stoic, and self-reliant. This can make it incredibly difficult for them to open up about their mental health struggles. Unfortunately, this leads to an overwhelming number of men suffering in silence, trapped in a cycle of shame, isolation, and fear.

When men do express their emotions, it’s often misinterpreted as anger. This is not a flaw or a sign of aggression—it’s simply a way for many men to mask their vulnerability. The truth is, anger is sometimes the only emotion men feel safe enough to express. Behind that anger, there’s often fear, sadness, guilt, and anxiety.

But it’s time for change. It’s time to break down the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and create an environment where they feel safe to ask for help, express themselves, and receive the care they need.

How to Help Men Cope

If you know a man who is struggling, or if you are a man facing mental health challenges, there are ways to begin coping—even if a therapist is not immediately accessible. It’s important to remember that reaching out for help doesn’t always have to be through professional therapy; sometimes, just taking the first small steps can make a world of difference.

  1. Encourage Open Conversations
    Create a safe space for men to talk without judgment. Let them know that it’s okay to not be okay, and it’s okay to talk about feelings. Ask open-ended questions and allow them the time and space to respond without pressure. Sometimes just saying, “I’m here for you,” can mean more than we realize.
  2. Normalize Vulnerability
    Remind them that being vulnerable is not a sign of weakness; it’s an act of strength. Show them that vulnerability is human, and it’s part of being a whole person. Help them understand that seeking help and being open with emotions is not only okay—it’s necessary.
  3. Promote Healthy Coping Mechanisms
    Encourage activities that can help men cope with their emotions in a healthy way. Whether it’s exercise, journaling, spending time outdoors, or taking up a hobby, these activities can provide a sense of purpose and relief. Encouraging them to take time for themselves is crucial for mental health.
  4. Create a Routine
    Having a sense of structure can help manage anxiety and stress. Encouraging daily routines, even small ones like taking a walk or making time for a favorite activity, can help restore a sense of normalcy and control.
  5. Take It One Step at a Time
    If a man feels overwhelmed by the thought of seeking professional help, start small. Begin with small steps like confiding in a friend or loved one, journaling, or reading about mental health. Sometimes, just acknowledging the issue is the first step toward healing.
  6. Encourage Connection
    One of the most important ways to help is through connection. Encourage men to spend time with friends, family, or loved ones who understand them. Social support is vital, and knowing they aren’t alone can ease the weight of their struggles.
  7. Be Patient
    Men, particularly those who struggle with opening up, may take time to feel comfortable with their emotions. Patience is key. Let them know you’re there for them, no matter how long it takes for them to open up.

For the Loved Ones of Men Struggling with Mental Health

As someone who loves a man dealing with mental health struggles, you play a critical role in his healing process. You may not have all the answers, and that’s okay. What’s most important is showing support, patience, and understanding.

When men aren’t ready to seek therapy, make sure they know you’re there to listen, without judgment or offering solutions unless they ask. Sometimes, just being present can provide the comfort they need to begin the healing process.

To wrap it up for you:

November is Men’s Mental Health Month, a time to reflect on how we can be more supportive of the men in our lives who are struggling. It’s essential to acknowledge the unique pressures men face and help break down the stigma of seeking help.

If you are a man reading this, know that it’s okay to not have everything figured out. It’s okay to ask for help, to lean on others, and to take small steps toward healing. And if you love a man who is struggling, remember that your compassion, patience, and support can make all the difference in the world.

Together, we can create a future where mental health is no longer a taboo subject and where men feel safe, loved, and supported on their journey toward emotional well-being.

In times of chaos

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Remember to Listen to Your Own Advice

Life has a way of sweeping us up in its whirlwind of chaos—whether it’s work, relationships, or the day-to-day demands that seem to grow the longer we ignore them. Last week got very chaotic for me on Wednesday afternoon at 4:04 pm. I won’t share details at the moment as it is all very raw, but I will remind myself and others that it’s ok to pause. It’s easy to forget what we know we need to do to take care of ourselves. But sometimes, in the midst of all the noise, we need a reminder. So, this is me reminding myself to slow down, take a breath, and go back to the basics—the things that help me stay grounded.

1. Stick to Your Routines
When everything feels unpredictable, routines are a stabilizing force. It’s tempting to throw them out the window when life gets hectic, but those routines are anchors. Whether it’s starting your day with a cup of coffee and a few minutes of quiet, or setting aside time for a walk or a workout, these small acts of consistency help create a sense of control, even when everything else feels out of hand. They’re not rigid rules; they’re your lifelines.

2. Eat Good Food
It’s so easy to fall into the trap of convenience, grabbing whatever is quickest or most comforting in the moment. But I know that eating well—not just grabbing food to fill the void—makes a huge difference in how I feel physically and mentally. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and balanced meals don’t just fuel the body; they fuel the mind, too. When you’re tired, stressed, or overwhelmed, it’s especially important to nourish yourself in ways that help you cope, not just survive.

3. Take Your Meds
I’ve been there—thinking that maybe I can skip a dose, or that I’ll be okay without them for a while. But the truth is, my medication is part of what helps me stay balanced, mentally and emotionally. There’s no shame in needing support, and the routine of taking meds is a tool in my toolkit for coping. I need to remember to stay consistent, to not let the chaos or distractions of life take me off course.

4. Rest
We often mistake being busy for being productive, and in doing so, we forget the importance of rest. Whether it’s taking a 20-minute power nap or simply stepping away from the hustle and bustle for a few minutes to reset, rest is essential for both body and mind. It’s not a luxury; it’s a necessity. In the chaos of daily life, I need to pause and honor my need for recovery.

5. Breathe
In the rush of the moment, we forget to breathe. Not just the shallow breaths that keep us alive, but the deep, mindful breaths that ground us. When stress builds up, my chest tightens, and my mind races. Taking a few moments to simply breathe, to center myself, helps me regain focus and calm. It’s a simple yet powerful tool to reset and remember that everything doesn’t have to be solved in one moment.

6. Reach out for help if you need it. It doesn’t matter if you haven’t been so great at keeping in touch. Call the friend. Text the family. It takes a village and honestly we get so caught up in trying to face things alone, either for shame, or whatever, we hurt ourselves more. Get the help, if its just a hand to hold or professional help, reach out.

Pause and Remember
In the chaos of life, it’s easy to forget to take care of ourselves. But I have to remind myself—especially when I’m feeling overwhelmed—that these simple routines are the things that help me cope. Taking care of my body, my mind, and my spirit is not a luxury. It’s the foundation that allows me to face the chaos with more resilience.

So, when life starts to feel like it’s spinning too fast, I’m going to pause, take a deep breath, and return to the basics. I’ll remind myself of the advice I’ve given before and continue following the steps that help me move through this life with more ease and less stress. Because at the end of the day, I can’t pour from an empty cup.

Who is next?

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

The Importance of Learning Personal Finance: Protecting Your Future, Today

As I navigate the world of business and finance, I’ve come to understand a crucial truth: while we are all taught to know our bank balances, we often neglect to consider how we will secure our financial futures in the event of the unexpected. In my journey, both personally and professionally, I’ve experienced the sting of loss far too many times, and it’s brought me to a pivotal realization—financial literacy isn’t just about knowing how to budget, it’s about preparing for the unknowns of life and ensuring that our loved ones are protected no matter what.

In recent years, I’ve lost people close to me, people who had no idea their time on Earth was so limited. The shock of their sudden departures forced me to confront a painful truth: we always know how much money is in our bank accounts, but we never know how much time we have left.

Through these experiences, I’ve learned just how important it is to not only know how to manage your money today, but how to make it work for you tomorrow. It’s not enough to simply save or budget; you need to understand how life insurance, investing, and asset protection can ensure your family’s financial security if you’re not around to provide for them.

The Need for Personal Finance Education

When we think of personal finance, the first thing that usually comes to mind is budgeting. While budgeting is undoubtedly important, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Understanding how to protect and grow your wealth is just as critical, if not more so, especially in an uncertain world where anything can change in the blink of an eye.

Life Insurance: Protecting Those Who Matter Most

A few of years ago and again this year, I lost friends unexpectedly. Middle aged, full of life, and with a bright future ahead. The sudden passing left the families reeling, both emotionally and financially. They had no life insurance in place, no financial safety net to cushion the blow of losing their income.

These events profoundly impacted me, and it sparked a deeper desire to learn about planning for the future, including life insurance—something I’d previously taken for granted. As I delved deeper into the field, this year I decided to become licensed to sell life insurance and realized just how vital it is to have coverage in place, no matter how young or healthy you are. Life insurance doesn’t just offer peace of mind; it’s a lifeline for your family in the face of tragedy. If the worst happens, your policy can cover funeral costs, replace lost income, pay off debts, and provide financial stability during an incredibly difficult time.

The lesson here is clear: you may be able to control your budget and expenses, but you can’t control the future. Life insurance gives you the power to ensure that those you love are not left in a financial struggle should something happen to you.

Investing: Making Your Money Work for You

Another eye-opening lesson I learned was the power of investing. In the wake of losing friends and family members, I started questioning how I was preparing for my own future. While I had saved money and kept a budget, I realized I wasn’t growing my wealth as effectively as I could have been.

Investing isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for anyone who wants to make their money work for them. Whether through stocks, real estate, or other opportunities, investing allows your money to grow exponentially over time. Compound interest is one of the most powerful forces in wealth-building, but it requires a long-term mindset.

When you invest, you’re setting yourself up for financial freedom and security. You’re working to create multiple streams of income that will carry you through not just your retirement years, but also any unexpected life events that might arise along the way.

Asset Protection: Securing What You’ve Built

Building wealth is one thing, but protecting that wealth is just as important. Whether it’s from potential lawsuits, creditors, or even unforeseen natural disasters, protecting your assets ensures that everything you’ve worked for doesn’t slip through your fingers due to factors beyond your control.

Consider estate planning, business insurance, and strategies like setting up trusts. These tools help ensure that your assets—whether it’s a home, a business, or investments—are safeguarded and passed on according to your wishes. I’ve seen firsthand how a lack of preparation in this area can lead to unnecessary hardship for family members left behind.

Why I’m Committed to Financial Literacy

As I’m working towards my financial licenses, I see my role not just as a professional in the industry, but as an advocate for financial literacy. Through my personal losses and the lessons I’ve learned, I want to help others take proactive steps to secure their futures. If I can help even one person understand the importance of investing in life insurance, taking control of their financial future, or protecting their assets, then it’s worth it.

Learning personal finance isn’t just about protecting your own future; it’s about ensuring that your loved ones can continue to thrive after you’re gone. You can’t predict what tomorrow will bring, but you can prepare for it. Whether it’s having the right insurance policies in place, investing to build wealth over time, or taking steps to safeguard your assets, personal finance gives you the tools to take control of your financial destiny.

NEXT STEPS: Take Action Today

We all face uncertainty. Life has a way of throwing us curveballs that we can’t predict or prepare for. But through personal finance—through learning about life insurance, investing, and asset protection—we can create a safety net that ensures our loved ones are taken care of when we’re no longer able to provide for them.

Don’t wait for tragedy to strike before you start thinking about your financial future. Start today. If you’re like me, and you’ve seen the devastating impact of sudden loss, use that as motivation to protect yourself, your family, and your wealth. Life may be unpredictable, but with the right financial tools in place, you can ensure that your legacy endures, no matter what.

Post election America…

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

The Post-Election Atmosphere: Finding Hope, Healing, and Unity

The election season has come and gone, but its aftermath lingers in the hearts and minds of many Americans. For some, the results bring hope and optimism for the future, while for others, the uncertainty and division feel overwhelming. The heightened emotions, the rhetoric, the constant media barrage—it all takes a toll on mental health. But as we stand together in the post-election world, it’s important to remember that healing, hope, and unity are still possible. I know it can feel heavy right now, or maybe you are elated and find a sense of relief with the election results. Either way you still have to work alongside people who believe differently than you. Let’s find some ways to cope and find comfort in the coming days and months because we are all Americans and we have to keep moving forward. 

Understanding the Emotional Landscape

Regardless of the outcome, elections are more than just a political event. They are emotional milestones that reflect our values, fears, and dreams for the future. The stress leading up to the election—intensified by polarization, misinformation, and often divisive campaigns—can have lasting effects. Some people feel victorious, empowered by their candidate’s win, while others feel anxious, fearful, or even betrayed. For many, the fear isn’t just about who won or lost, but about what those outcomes could mean for their lives, their communities, and the country as a whole.

It’s crucial to acknowledge the fear and anxiety some are feeling. For people on either side of the aisle, the election process itself can sometimes feel like a giant game of tug-of-war, with the stakes so high that it becomes hard to see beyond the immediate moment. Many are grappling with a sense of uncertainty about the future, especially if they feel that the country’s direction no longer aligns with their values.

Yet, while this atmosphere may feel heavy, it is also an opportunity for us to pause, reflect, and find a way forward—together.

For Those Feeling Hopeful: Keep Building Bridges

For those who are feeling a sense of relief, joy, or hope after the election, it’s important to recognize that the journey doesn’t end at the ballot box. While victory may feel sweet, the true work of healing and unifying our nation starts now. The election is not a conclusion; it’s merely the next chapter.

You can be a source of hope for others by fostering understanding and empathy. Even if you feel your side has “won,” it’s essential to acknowledge that many others are struggling to come to terms with the results. Reaching out to those with differing opinions, listening to their concerns, and engaging in respectful conversations is a step toward healing. Our nation is built on the strength of our diverse perspectives, and we thrive when we come together, not when we retreat into isolated echo chambers.

So, continue to act with compassion. Continue to advocate for progress, but do so in a way that seeks common ground. Work on being inclusive, not just in policy but in your actions and words. This is how we make a real difference.

For Those Feeling Fearful or Uncertain: You Are Not Alone

If you’re feeling fearful or uncertain about the future, your emotions are valid. It’s okay to feel worried, and it’s okay to need time to process. The election results may have felt like a personal loss, especially if you deeply disagreed with the outcome or feel that your rights and values are under threat. But remember: feelings of fear, doubt, and anger are not the end of the story.

In these times, it’s crucial to take care of your mental and emotional health. Political anxiety can be real, and its effects on mental health are not to be underestimated. Feeling disillusioned, frustrated, or anxious about what comes next is normal, but it’s also important to find healthy ways to manage those emotions. This might mean limiting your exposure to the news or social media, connecting with a mental health professional, or simply giving yourself permission to step away from the constant cycle of political discourse.

It’s also vital to remember that change often happens gradually, and one election cycle does not define the future of a nation. If you are feeling despair or fear, try to focus on the things you can control. Invest in your community, support your local businesses, volunteer for causes you care about, or engage in meaningful conversations with others who may share your concerns. Change is not linear, and it’s okay to take a step back and regroup for the work ahead.

Moving Forward: Together as Fellow Americans

At the end of the day, we are all in this together. We all care deeply about the future of our country, even if we sometimes differ in our vision for it. The post-election atmosphere is a reflection of our democratic process—imperfect, yes, but driven by the shared ideal that each of us has a voice, and that voice matters.

No matter who you voted for, it’s essential that we all take a deep breath, reflect on our shared humanity, and move forward with a commitment to healing and understanding. It’s easy to focus on our differences, especially in such a polarized environment, but the future of America depends on our ability to find common ground, build bridges, and work together for the common good.

For both those who are feeling triumphant and those who are feeling fearful, there is hope. The future is not determined by the outcome of a single election—it is shaped by our collective actions, by how we treat each other, and by our willingness to listen, learn, and grow. Even in moments of uncertainty, there is always the possibility of growth, change, and healing.

Let’s move forward together—united as Americans, with empathy in our hearts and hope for a brighter tomorrow. After all, our nation was built not on perfection, but on the ability to continually strive to be better. Let’s keep striving. Together.

Here are some key numbers and resources that can help individuals who need mental health support:

1. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988)

  • Phone Number: Dial 988 (National Suicide Prevention Lifeline)
  • Website: https://988lifeline.org/
  • Details: The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 for anyone in distress, including those experiencing mental health crises, suicidal thoughts, or emotional distress. This helpline connects callers to trained counselors who can provide support and resources. It does not involve law enforcement unless the caller is in immediate danger.

2. Crisis Text Line

  • Text Number: Text HOME to 741741
  • Website: https://www.crisistextline.org/
  • Details: The Crisis Text Line provides free, confidential support for anyone in crisis, offering text-based counseling services. It’s available 24/7, and trained crisis counselors are there to listen, offer support, and help guide people through the situation.

3. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline

  • Phone Number: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
  • Text Number: Text “NAMI” to 741741
  • Website: https://www.nami.org/
  • Details: NAMI’s helpline provides free, confidential support and information on mental health issues, including resources for individuals and families dealing with mental illness. The helpline offers guidance on where to seek care and how to find appropriate services without involving law enforcement.

4. The Trevor Project (For LGBTQ+ Youth)

  • Phone Number: 1-866-488-7386
  • Text Number: Text START to 678678
  • Website: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
  • Details: The Trevor Project offers a confidential helpline, text, and chat services for LGBTQ+ youth who are experiencing crisis or need support around mental health, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or coming out. It’s available 24/7 and is specifically aimed at helping LGBTQ+ individuals.

5. Veterans Crisis Line

  • Phone Number: 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)
  • Text Number: Text 838255
  • Website: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
  • Details: The Veterans Crisis Line is a 24/7 helpline for veterans in crisis. It provides confidential support for veterans and their families, helping with mental health issues and distress. Pressing “1” connects you directly to a specialized counselor, and the service does not involve law enforcement unless there is imminent danger.

6. SAMHSA National Helpline

  • Phone Number: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
  • Website: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-treatment
  • Details: The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) helpline provides 24/7, confidential treatment referral and information for individuals and families facing mental or substance use disorders. SAMHSA helps individuals find nearby mental health providers, detox services, and recovery resources.

7. National Domestic Violence Hotline (For those experiencing abuse, which may include emotional abuse)

  • Phone Number: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
  • Text Number: Text “START” to 88788
  • Website: https://www.thehotline.org/
  • Details: While primarily focused on domestic violence, the hotline also provides support for people experiencing emotional and psychological abuse. It’s available 24/7 and offers confidential guidance and resources for individuals who are feeling unsafe or threatened.

8. Disaster Distress Helpline

  • Phone Number: 1-800-985-5990
  • Text Number: Text “TalkWithUs” to 66746
  • Website: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline
  • Details: This helpline is available for people who are experiencing distress related to natural or human-caused disasters. It provides immediate crisis counseling and support and helps connect individuals to ongoing mental health resources.

9. Mindful and Supportive Apps

10. Local Crisis and Community Support Lines

  • Many cities and states also offer local crisis helplines that can help connect individuals with mental health resources. These are often confidential and non-judgmental and do not involve law enforcement unless there is immediate danger. To find local mental health crisis resources, check your state or city’s official website or call SAMHSA’s helpline for recommendations.

Final Note:

The mental health crisis helplines listed above are designed to provide immediate support, counseling, and connection to services without involving law enforcement. They are valuable resources for individuals who may be struggling with emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, or general mental health concerns. It’s important for everyone to know that help is available—and they are never alone, even in the darkest moments.

Feel free to share these resources widely, as they can make a significant difference for those who need them.