In an article in the Huffington post, Dr. Constance Sharff conveys some of her painful experiences as a childless woman on the high holidays.
Painful comments are more than just words
Holidays can exacerbate feelings of exclusion and loss among couples without children. Well meaning comments have the potential to cause more harm than intended.
Couples may struggle to find meaning in religious practices centered around children or families. The happy atmosphere of the holidays may feel isolating to childless couples that are not welcomed by their community.
Welcome childless couples in your community
There are many ways in which communities can become welcoming to childless couples. Here are a few ideas to get started:
- Invite childless couples to the community’s family oriented events.
- When making plans for parties or potlucks, remember your friends who don’t have children.
- Invite childless couples to partake in ritual services or community planning. Many of these roles do not involve children from the outset and allow those with children and those without a chance to socialize and make a difference together.
How has your community welcomed childless couples this holidays season?
If you don’t have children, how are you coping? We are here for you. Call now to speak with Pam, or leave a message in the contact form and click Send.
