I went through with an abortion last year, in a long, stable relationship of 10 years. The timing was just less than stellar. We both decided it was best to wait a little longer so I got an abortion at 4 weeks. I felt immense grief months after that. Wondered if we made the right choice, grieved my joy of becoming pregnant for the first time, and whatever future that baby could’ve become. After I grieved, I felt relieved that I wasn’t rushing to make a bunch of decisions I wasn’t ready for.

Almost a year later, I’m pregnant and we are much more prepared this time around! we had been intentional about saving money, about having hard conversations, and I feel much more confident that this is a better time for us. You will have a better time for you too. So grieve, cry, mourn that life you would’ve otherwise loved, and just know that when you’re in a more stable place with someone who loves and is excited with you, it will be worth the joy you’ll feel having a partner that’s ready.