I don’t remember exactly when I first heard about Grace’s Table, but it has made a lasting impression. My sister, Erica Wolbrink, met Lisa Anderson and became involved with Grace’s Table not too long ago. It is through Erica that I learned all about Grace’s Table’s mission to help provide young moms with space to grow personally – spiritually, professionally, and as mothers. Ever since I first heard about Grace’s Table’s mission, it stuck with me and captured my imagination – even though I have never experienced Grace’s Table in person. I could never quite figure out why, until recently.
As I began participating in Grace’s Table’s latest social media campaign, I thought about why I feel so drawn to Grace’s Table’s mission. It finally hit me. As a single woman approaching 40 preparing to adopt and become a single mom, I can only begin to imagine what young moms feel at age 15 or even 20. Parenting is hard enough; it is infinitely harder when trying to figure out your own identity, often in the face of limited resources and support.
I am blessed. I have a wonderful education, bright career prospects, a home, and reliable transportation. I am surrounded by friends and family who support and love me unconditionally. Even though I am not yet a mom, I know where I will send my children to day-care and later school. I have a fully-developed support systems, resources, and options. And I am still scared.
I can’t imagine facing parenthood in the middle of adolescence or even in young adulthood. As a secondary teacher, I fully understand that adolescence and young adulthood is a time of discovering one’s identity. That self-discovery requires space and support. Unfortunately, that is precisely what many young mothers lack just when they need it most. Grace’s Table is seeking to provide that space and support for young mothers in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I invite you join me in learning more about Grace’s Table, their mission, and what space for grace is all about.
#spaceforgrace
Ramblings of a Misguided Blonde 