An Inspiring Group of Moms
When one of the moms in this close-knit friendship circle hit a wall of despair, everyone rallied in support
During one of our weekly Zoom chats last winter, our friend Amanda opened up to us, saying, “It’s hard, really hard. To be honest, I’m not doing well at all; I’m really struggling.” Sighing tearfully, she continued, “I miss seeing people and doing things. And living so far out of town is isolating enough without these COVID restrictions. Add to that, it’s winter and getting dark out so early, plus it’s been so cold this week, I can’t even go outside with the kids.”
Tears started to stream down her cheeks as we watched helplessly on our computer screens. Our group of mom-friends had been meeting weekly for years. Over that time, we had helped one another with sickness, newborns, postpartum depression, health scares and even moves to new homes. Now, however, we were separated, unable to reach out in times of need. As the call ended, I sat staring at my computer screen, heartbroken for my friend who was so clearly suffering. Something needed to be done to boost Amanda’s spirits, but what? Then, inspiration struck!
It was incredibly short notice, but it had to be done. I immediately began a chat with our momgroup, everyone except Amanda that is. The result? Husbands made sure they were home from work on time to take over parenting duties; vehicles were filled with gas; gifts were purchased; and at 6:00 p.m. that night, a flurry of vehicles met up in the Tim Horton’s parking lot in Williams Lake, B.C. One after the other, in a convoy of vans, cars and SUVS, we drove for 30 minutes into the ranch lands of the Cariboo-chilcotin and down the long driveway of our dear friend Amanda.
The vehicles were maneuvered into a circle near the campfire that Brady, Amanda’s husband, had built (“Why the heck is he building a campfire in the driveway on a Tuesday night?” Amanda had wondered). Hatchbacks opened and, bundled in winter coats, snow pants, hats, gloves and blankets, our group of friends sat at the back of our individual vehicles— hot tea at the ready—while Amanda looked on with tears welling in her eyes. This time though, they were tears of joy!
Although there were no hugs that night, there was laughter, joy, friendship and solidarity as our group braved -10°C weather to show one another love, support and strength of community; something that was greatly needed by every single one of us.