by Tasha Miller

Prior to arriving here on Whidbey Island, I lived in Japan with my family. There I was introduced to Kintsugi (translated to “golden joinery”) – the Japanese art of repairing broken ceramics using lacquer dusted with powdered gold. Instead of being hidden, the broken parts of the pottery are made visible, symbolizing the strength, fragility, and beauty of imperfection. ✨

The transition into parenthood can sometimes feel similar, breaking us open into pieces that can feel so hard to put back together. But as we let go of trying to come together as we were, we can embrace a new wholeness. We may be visibly and emotionally changed, but I believe we become more rich and beautiful for having been broken open.

My own golden repair has come in the form of countless small gestures of love and caring; a mentor who came over to cook me dinner and hold my babies, experienced parents sharing their stories and struggles to help normalize my own, and finding a place of comfort and care when I first discovered Playscape.

At Mother Mentors, we believe that the process of coming back wholeness as a parent is not meant to be a lonely endeavor. Rather, healing comes over time,
both from within and from the care and support of those around us in the community. Where we do not yet feel solid, others can help us fill in the gaps. No matter how small and invisible.

We work with passion to match families of young children with the support they need. Whether you are a parent or caregiver in search of connection and support (or just a comfortable place to bring your busy toddler) or a caring person interested in lending a hand, we invite you to explore our website to learn more about how you can weave into the Mother Mentors community.