What It Feels Like to Be Misunderstood by Friends or Family

Sometimes the hardest part of this journey isn’t the tantrums or trauma.

It’s the well-meaning comments from people who just… don’t get it.

• “Why don’t you just spank him?”
• “I could never do what you’re doing.”
• “Aren’t you worried about your real kids?”

You smile. You nod. You change the subject.

But inside, it hurts.

Because you’re not asking for applause.

You’re asking to be seen.

To be understood.

To not have to explain the sacred calling every time you walk into a room.

And that’s why community matters.

You need people who don’t need the backstory.

Who speak the same language.

Who look you in the eye and say, “Same here. Keep going.”

Jesus was misunderstood too.

So you’re in good company.