Bliss for BEGINNERS JULIA BERNARDS


2010 was a rough year for me. My four- month-old baby, who was born with a life- threatening congenital birth defect, had finally come home from the hospital, only to have recurring health issues that required my constant care and attention. Ten an- other serious birth defect was discovered which required us to make a weekly 12- hour round-trip for months on end to get medical care in another state. I was worn down physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. My son’s health issues meant he needed to be isolated from others, which meant I had to be too, so even my ability to socialise was curtailed. Everyone in the family suffered because of my dwindling energy and personal resources. My other


children and husband were very patient and helpful, but the adage “when Momma ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy” was very apparent.


During that time, the chronic stress and exhaustion turned into depression. At one point, I realized that I had ceased to enjoy any part of my life. In fact, I couldn’t think of anything that could create the feeling of joy in my heart. I knew there were wonder- ful things all around me, but my heart was numb to them. I had to re-learn how to be happy.


Te process took many months, but has opened my eyes and heart to a sense of bliss that I never knew before.


8 INSPIRATIONAL WOMAN MAGAZINE Models: Izzy & Georgia


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