In college, there’s a point when “pregnancy scares” aren’t even scares anymore. You and your friends have peed on enough sticks to realize that periods can be late for many different reasons and that it probably isn’t morning sickness, you’re just hungover. Eventually, the potential for pregnancy doesn’t even phase you. That’s why I was not at all prepared when my best friend texted me a picture of a sonogram. For the first time in my life, it wasn’t just a scare, it was actually happening, and it sent me on one heck of an emotional rollercoaster. Here are the nine emotional stages I experienced:
1. Disbelief
Hahahaha! She’s joking… right?
2. Denial
Wait. No. Really? That is so weird to think about! I can’t.
3. Realization
It all makes sense now! I KNEW she was just pretending to be drunk at that New Years party.
4. Sadness
Aw, we can’t drink together anymore!
5. Recovery
I guess there is more to life than drinking. We all have to start being responsible eventually, right?
6. Crisis
Wait, should I be having babies too?! She’s bringing a human being into this world, what am I doing with my life?
7. Recovery
It’s fine, I still have time. Plus, nine months without vodka sounds awful.
8. Acceptance
Okay, if the kid is half as cool as my friend, then it can’t be that bad. And I guess being the cool aunt will be pretty fun.
9. Excitement
OMG my amazing friend is going to have a beautiful baby and be the best mom ever!
It definitely wasn’t easy to get used to the fact that we were going to have to grow up and that our friendship was going to change, but now I cannot wait for the new experiences to come!