09/30/2025
An important read 🩷
"Somewhere, there’s a woman: 30 years old, no children. People ask her, “Still no kids?” She forces a smile. “Not yet.” Later, she cries… because she’s had miscarriages, because IVF didn’t work, because she’s tried for years, because her heart aches every time she’s asked that question.
Somewhere else, there’s a woman: 34, five children. People say, “Five? I hope you’re done!” They laugh like it’s funny. She laughs too, politely. Later, she cries… because she wanted a big family, because her Granny had 12, because she’s tired of the judgment, because people assume she’s irresponsible, because no one sees how much love and care she pours into her kids.
And then there’s another woman: 40, one child. People ask, “Only one? Didn’t you want more?” She smiles, “I’m happy with my one.” Later, she cries… because her one was a miracle, because she wanted more, because her body or life circumstances won’t allow it, because people don’t know the battles she’s already fought.
💔 These women are everywhere. They are our sisters, our neighbors, our coworkers, our friends.
Their wombs are not community property. Their choices are not public business. Their pain is not ours to poke at with casual comments and “funny” jokes.
So here’s the reminder:
👉 Whether it’s no kids, five kids, or one kid—it’s not your place to question.
👉 Respect their journey. Respect their story. Respect their silence.
Because you never know what tears are hidden behind that smile."
[Nadirah Angail]
