STORY OF HOPE 30/50: My name is Emilie, and this is my New Life Story.
I was a freshman in college and focused on creating a plan for my life. However, this plan did not include getting pregnant.
I had been making decisions which compromised the morals I was raised with, but I was shocked and panicked when I found out I was pregnant. Right away, I told my parents. They were shocked as well but supportive. They told me about a place called New Life Family Services where I could discuss my options.
My social worker provided me with helpful information that caused me to dig into what emotions I was experiencing, my long-term goals, and how my options fit into that. I did consider adoption, but ultimately, I wanted to raise my child. I knew I could do it because there was support available, even if my relationship with the baby’s father was complicated.
I enrolled in the parenting program at First Care and attended once a week throughout my pregnancy. Through the program, I learned about the development of my baby and met with parent coaches who were genuinely interested in my life and how I was doing. They helped me feel less anxious about motherhood and provided me with diapers and other practical items.
Eli was born in the spring of 2015, and the joy I experienced becoming his mom was beyond what I had ever imagined to be humanly possible. Soon after, I graduated from the parenting program and finished college with two degrees.
When Eli was four months old, I met the man who would become my husband. He exemplified God’s unconditional love in its truest form by accepting me, Eli, and our past without any hesitation. We have been blessed with two daughters and just celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary.
Without the life-changing, pivotal moment of becoming pregnant, I don’t think I would have made the same choices that brought me where I am today. It really is true: Every good and perfect gift is from above. No matter the circumstances, children are the most perfect gift our heavenly Father gives us. I am forever grateful for the role that New Life played in helping me be Eli’s mom.
Parenthood has challenged me in the best way possible, and I’ve learned to surrender my plans to the One who knows best. Despite the darkness that has surrounded moments of our story, there is so much light. What wasn’t part of my plan, God used for His glory. And ultimately, I discovered God’s calling for my life.
If someone finds themselves in a similar situation, I urge you to walk through the doors of New Life. Everyone is so friendly, and they genuinely want to help you determine what is best for you and your baby. It is a safe space to talk without judgment or pressure, just love and support.
