Parker Baby Co. Ambassador Cora Rattle has a passion for supporting mamas in need, and we love her heart for serving others. Here are her insightful tips on offering true help to that mama in need!

When both of our children were born, our church community set up a meal train, bringing meals consistently in the early days of change, transition, and sleep deprivation. Their love, shown through food, was such a gift.

Similarly, as a family, we have showed up for and showered others with love
in tangible ways through the ‘highs’ of life: having a baby, graduating,
reaching a birthday or anniversary, reaching a milestone of significance, or
getting married.

But What About the Valleys?

What I have noticed over the years though, is that in seasons of drought or
darkness, community can feel more elusive. Perhaps this stems from people
not knowing what to say in the midst of difficulty, grief, or loss. However, it is
in those seasons that the presence of community is most powerful and
valuable.

Through reflecting, I have come to recognize that although it is not always
easy to find words for a friend walking through infertility, miscarriage, a loss,
a breakup, a hospitalization or health crisis, or a divorce - what remains true
is that the presence of a friend offers more comfort than mere words can
express.

As a person of action, I created a list with some recommended ways to show
up of a friend in difficult season. As this list is not exhaustive, please share in
the comments some of your ideas, so that we, as a group, can become more
thoughtful and intentional individuals.

Send a Card or Gift

Although words may be hard to articulate, a simple “thinking of you,” “praying for you,” “I see you,” or “I love you” sentiment can go a long way. In addition, a small gift that is thoughtfully curated sends a strong message that you had that person in mind.

Give with Joy is one of my favorite small businesses centered around supporting individuals in creating intentional gifts for others. Another shop that follows this same mission is FreeLeaf. Both shops are small businesses that are owned and operated by women in Colorado.

Bring or Send a Meal

As community is not always nearby, providing dinner in the form of a homemade meal might not be feasible. However, utilizing platforms like DoorDash, GrubHub, or UberEats will allow for you to have a meal delivered to your friend at their home, hotel, or the hospital. Filling a person’s stomach is one way to show them love in a practical and tangible way. Consider offering a meal that is hearty or comforting or sending a meal that you know is their favorite.

Spend Time Together

Depending on proximity, offer to spend time with your friend(s). Depending on the circumstances, navigate with sensitivity and prepare to do a lot of listening. Whether your friend needs a shoulder to cry on or an ear to listen, offer. If they are not in a space to be vulnerable or share, respect those boundaries.

Acts of Service

When in the midst of a difficult season, extraneous tasks can pile up and cause stress. If you are in a position to do so, offer to support with household responsibilities, pets, errands, or childcare. Taking one thing off of their mental load, might bless your friend and support them through their season of challenge or change. In whatever way you decide to engage in intentional friendship, know that your relationships will be blessed and strengthened as a result.

What other ways of showing intentional friendship would you add to this list?

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