🌈 Finding Rainbows in Unexpected Places

For so long, I yearned, hoped, and dreamed of our rainbow baby. I thought if I didn’t think positively enough, I would somehow jinx us. The irrational thoughts were exhausting and, at times, completely overwhelming.

But the truth is, not everyone gets their rainbow baby. After we decided to end our journey without a baby, I slowly learned to start looking for rainbows in other places. It was a gradual mind shift, but one that was so important in helping me heal.

When we miscarried and throughout our numerous fertility treatments, our golden retriever Lucy was a constant source of comfort. She was so attentive and always by my side, sensing my grief and somehow knowing exactly what I needed. I credit Lucy with carrying me through some of my darkest days—she gave us joy, laughter, and unconditional love when we were drowning in sadness. We will forever be grateful to her for helping us survive that chapter of our lives.

And then came Saydee, our grey ball of energy. She entered our lives shortly after we made the decision to embrace our childless life, and I often think of her as my rainbow baby. She brought with her a new kind of love and excitement, a reminder that we could put all of the love we once imagined giving to our children into our beautiful fur babies.

Being a fur parent is just one of the many, many ways those of us in the childless—not by choice or by choice—community can pour our love into the world and make a difference. For me, finding this outlet has been key and a big part of my healing journey.

So, don’t be afraid to look for your rainbow in unexpected places. It may not look the way you once imagined, but it can still bring light, joy, and meaning into your life.

🌈 There are so many ways to find your rainbow. Tell me about some of yours—I’d love to hear.