What We Need Are Soul Sisters

I understand the frustrations and worries of parenting a challenging teen. You feel alone, hopeless, scared and confused—not knowing what to do. I have experienced a teenager struggling with ADHD, depression, defiance, hanging with the wrong crowd, and addiction, to name a few. I understand first-hand how you can feel worn down and as though you failed as a mom.

Motherhood can be especially lonely and it’s easy to want to withdraw when the going gets tough. I have no doubt that parenting teens can potentially break our illusions of being a perfect mother. And when confronted with these challenges, even the most confident moms can feel like they failed miserably.

What I also know and have experienced is the power, hope, and healing that comes through a supportive community of moms. Moms who are courageous and openly share their hearts and struggles. Moms who are willing to be “messy”, admit they are FAR from perfect, and share their challenges. I call these brave women “soul sisters”. These are the women who show up, listen, and walk beside you through the hills and valleys, not only of parenting but life.

Soul sisters share a desire for meaningful connections. They possess a hunger to learn, grow and transform in order to achieve the life and relationships they desire. As they give and receive kindness, grace, and compassion together, they increase their capacity to love themselves and others whole-heartedly.

Eleven years ago, in the middle of a crisis, I stepped out in faith and joined a group of soul sisters. In this community, I became more self-aware of my feelings and the behaviors that were keeping me stuck. Together we have inspired, strengthened, and reassured one another—holding a higher vision for all we can be.

I am grateful to say that my adult child has now been sober for over eight years. However, the greatest transformation has taken place in me, my marriage and my family. I believe that whatever we are going through, our struggles are not in vain. Conflict and crisis can be a catalyst for change and an opportunity for growth. As much as we might be tempted to run for cover and hide, we are wise to embrace the pain and allow it to do its work so it can positively impact our life. I want to acknowledge that this is a process. I understand if you are not there. It takes time. It’s important to be patient and kind to yourself in this process.

No matter what you may be going through, I want you to know that you are not alone. I encourage you to reach out to a trustworthy friend and share your struggles. You’ll be amazed at what this can do to lighten your load. It might even invite another mom to open up and share what she is going through.

We also invite you to join our community on Facebook. Join our discussions! And, please feel free to drop me an email and let me know how MOTTS can better support you!

There is a wellspring of life, support, encouragement, and hope waiting for you in a community of moms here at MOTTS.