It could be worse...

This is what I often hear, as I am sure do many other parents of a child who has Type 1 Diabetes. Not what we need to hear. Trust me. Let me tell you why.

The feelings we have, as parents, are real. They need to be validated.
When someone tells us "It could be worse." it makes those feelings less important.

So you may say "Give me a break. It could be worse, because it really could be worse. So, think positive, and move on. Don't wallow in self-pity."

I know that. I am aware of that. But you haven't validated my feelings at all.
Is it not ok for me to have those feelings? Is it not ok for me to sometimes feel overwhelmed? Am I supposed to always be on the top of the world? No. We're just human after all. Aren't you?

So, next time someone tells you something and your first instinct is to say "It could be worse.", think twice and just say "It's ok. I understand."

We all know it could be worse. No need to remind us of that.

We just need a listening ear sometimes.

Thanks for reading.