Between birth and becoming.

It is said that a mother is born alongside her baby; stepping into a new world both tender and wild. I have learned that motherhood completely reshapes us; body, mind, and soul. As society has put it, women are plagued with the notion of
“returning to our old selves” or “getting back to normal after pregnancy”.
In the midst of these postpartum notions, I pondered to myself:
would my old self handle this transition and load? Most probably not.

The poem below is a gentle whisper to every mother navigating the postpartum journey. A reminder that you are seen and never alone.


Oh, But Darling...

Your old self ceased to exist,
in fact, many moons ago.
When you were none the wiser,
chosen by this little soul.

There is no “normal” to hurry back to,
only a new you to unfold.
Fear not that you are lost, my dear,
your arms were made to hold.

Breathe, my love— there’s no need to rush.
Your weariness is sacred.
Be tender, quiet —pause and hush,
identity stripped, lay naked.

The dishes can wait, as can the world.
It’s you this little soul looks upon.
Be fully there, tuned in, aware—
for tears at midnight and the quiet dawn.

So, darling, be gentle in this space,
hold yourself as you do your child.
Dance through the chaos with reverence and grace.
In your softness, you are still wild.

Written by Amy Broderick - June 2025