5 Simple Ways to Reach Out This Week (Or Any Week, Really)

It's National Infertility Awareness Week. Mother's Day is right around the corner. How about a fun primer on simple ways to reach out and encourage someone you know who is facing infertility?

1. Pray for them. This is the simplest thing, and while they may not realize you're doing so, it's important. Perhaps this week, pray for specifics:

• for the health of their marriage
• for her ability to focus at work if she's going through treatments
• for them to know that they are not forgotten
• for them to know a special joy and gratitude this week

2. Drop them a note or card in the mail. Snail mail is a special treat, especially when it's filled with encouraging verses. If you have some colourful Post-its or index cards, write out some texts of comfort and encouragement to include with the card.

Some of my favourite texts of encouragement during the bleakest days of infertility:

• Psalm 73:26 - "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
• Psalm 62:1&2 - "Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken."
• Psalm 20:1&2 - "May the Lord answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you. May he send you help from the sanctuary and grant you support from Zion."

3. Offer to go for coffee or a stroll through the mall - without your kiddos. Allow me to clarify this one. We love your kids. Most days, however, we are completely jealous.. We don't like to use the word jealous, but there it is. And while some days, we'll do just fine around your kidlets and enjoy ourselves, the offer (from you) to leave them home will mean the world to us. It means a:) we don't have to share you and b:) we don't have to put in extra work being okay. We can just be with you and chat about whatever. And that's a big deal to us. I promise.

4. With Mother's Day coming up, take an extra moment to remember that there are women in your church who have lost babies. I'm sure you think of your babies on Mother's Day. They are also thinking of theirs. The ones they never held this side of grace. The ones that slipped away to Jesus' arms before they had a chance to meet them. This Mother's Day, if you know someone in your church who has lost a child, slip a card in their hand or mailbox. Assure them that they (and their precious babies) are not forgotten, and that you're praying for an extra measure of peace for them.

5. Deliver a home-cooked meal. If you know someone is in the midst of treatments at the cycle, drop off a meal. I know we typically reserve these for babies just born or people who are ailing, but a warm meal is a sign of hospitality and encouragement for anyone going through a challenging time. It will be truly appreciated.

Can you think of more? Please share them in the comment box below!

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This post is part of National Infertility Awareness Week. Please go to resolve.org to learn more and become a part of the movement.

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