Dreams shattered and destroyed
Feelings of loss and loneliness
Not fitting inside society’s box
Being judged and criticized by others’ pronatalistic ideals
Many hurtful words meant to help heal and console
Instead cause pain, tears, and feelings of unworthiness

This was Not my plan.
This was Not my dream.
Life is Unfair.
How did I get here?
Why Me?

Holding it all inside, I hide my sorrow
It is dark and cold in this place
I wrap myself up in this dark cocoon of
Anger, disappointment, frustration
Longing for something I can’t have
I stay there a long time...overwhelmed

Then I begin to see a ray of light
Do others feel this way?, I wonder
I peek out a little and a little more
I start to recognize these feelings as grief

As I start to stretch my wings, my stomach twists in knots
I am just beginning this new journey
Discovering many other strong, courageous, brave childless people
Just like me, I am not alone.
I stumble around and try to find my footings

I am on a new path
It is exciting and scary all at once
Time to create some new dreams
Be proud of who I am
I am childless
The future is waiting...
Full of new opportunities...
Yet to be explored

I have become a butterfly,
spreading my wings.

Daphne C.