One of the first conversations that Steph and I had regarding World Childless Week was about the possible contend for the individual themed days. When we started talking about the innocent words and comments that hurt we both had personal experiences to share. Our facial expressions where classic. “This has to be shared in a visual format because these reactions are simply too good to miss!” So the idea of the World Childless Week Videos was formulated. We agreed that a video focusing on one of this year’s four comments featuring a number of different people was the way to go. Here are the end results together with a word or three from each of the participants about the experience of recording their inner most thoughts to share with the world. Click on the photographs to visit the persons’ website or blog.
Despite having been open about being childless for a few years, I was nervous of being on camera. People often see me as confident but I’m not on the inside. To express a little of my thoughts to a potentially large audience left me shaking. However it was also liberating and empowering. I hope my words have meaning to someone, even if it is just one person. I hope my feelings come through despite holding back on my emotions. I hid my emotions to safeguard and protect myself. I’m not yet ready to show the world my tears, but one day I will.
Stephanie Phillips
World Childless Week Videos: Have you considered adoption?
I was really pleased to contribute to the videos, it’s a fabulous way of opening up these subjects to a wider audience and particularly so that those who ask the questions understand the impact their words have. Coming to terms with being childless can be incredibly hard, and it’s really not helpful when people ask these sorts of questions. Do people really think we haven’t thought about adoption? Really? We considered absolutely everything that might make our dream of being parents come true, and now it’s time to move on with our lives. My hope is with these videos that people will come to respect this.
Lesley Pyne
Insensitive comments are something I feel very strongly about, which is why I volunteered for the video. This journey is difficult enough, without thoughtless and off-handed remarks. I wasn’t too nervous, as I have some experience of public speaking, I just hoped that I made some sense! Watching the video, I of course hated how I sounded and looked, and definitely had to think twice about sharing it. But I realised that the message was more important than my vanity (!) It has been so well received, I’m glad that I was a part of this video and that I’m helping to raise awareness of these issues.
Jessica Jones
World Childless Week Videos: No in God’s Plan!
I must admit that I was a little nervous about making the video’s, I’m very mindful that my opinions could be confrontational for some. I’m aware that I’m a big gruff guy and I’m guilty of speaking my mind, these at times are not a good combination. What I didn’t expect was how my emotions began to rise up from that place I keep them locked. Not locked because I’m afraid of them but controlled so I can say what I needed too without being a mess. I would encourage everyone to have a go, it was a cathartic experience and it I think we, sisters and brothers of our community should do more of it.
Michael Hughes
World Childless Week Videos: No kids, lucky you!
Berenice’s words will be added very shortly!
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World Childless Week Videos: No kids, have mine!
Andrew’s words will be added very shortly!
If you have been inspired by these videos and would like to participate in the videos for World Childless Week 2018 please use the contact form below. This is only indicating your interest and is NOT committing yourself to anything at this stage.