
What The Summer Solstice & The Multiple Retrogrades Coming Up Mean For Your Life

There is a lot happening in the zodiac for everyone in the coming weeks. The floodgates of the summer solstice has welcomed itself, and the energies hit heaviest on June 26. The Strawberry Moon came through dripping lunar manifestation power, there will be a solar eclipse happening on July 12, and the longest lunar eclipse that has ever taken place in over a century happening on July 27.
Related: Your Monthly Horoscopes: July 2018
From June 26 to August 27, there will be six planets that will be in retrograde. These planets will bring about reflection of career, stability, security, emotional baggage, introspection, secrets, synchronicities, communication, thought, and action.
This read will reveal how each astrological sign group will be affected by some of the most powerful retrogrades, and how each individual astrological sign will be affected by the Summer Solstice Gateway. It will also suggest a divine July 12th and July 27th affirmation to recite during the solar and lunar eclipse, so bookmark this page!
Planetary Retrograde Energy
Jupiter Retrograde
Jupiter will be ending its retrograde on July 10, and has everything to do with ambitions, long-term plans, and travel.
Earth signs will be pushed to let go of any fear or doubt around the aforementioned categories. For whatever reason, you have been holding back on any of these things, you will release blockages, stop making excuses, and make an ultimate move! Put your earthy energy into play, and hit the ground running! Many will struggle with going back into negative patterns in any area of life.
Water signswill learn to take matters into their own hands when it comes to Jupiter energy, if you have been wanting to go on a vacation or make a long-term plan contingent upon other people. If people rock with you, or contribute financially, that is great...but ultimately, if you want it, you have to go get it yourself. This is "pull yourself up by the bootstraps" energy.
Fire signs might make plans with groups of people only to see the true colors of some people in their crew under this energy. With this retrograde, make sure you aren't grouping up with fair-weather friends, or those who just want a piece of your glow up. Not everyone in your circle may actually be for you, and this energy will bring it to light.
Air signs will find themselves moving further away from people who are not like-minded, or as free-spirited as they are. Under this Jupiter retrograde energy, you'll find more than ever, that birds of a feather flock together. The retrograde energy will pull air signs out of their comfort zones, and move closer to authenticity of self and surroundings.
Pluto Retrograde
Pluto has been in retrograde since April, and will go direct on September 30. This energy involves revelations and releasing baggage.
Earth signs will feel the heat when it comes to any kind of codependent relationships, behaviors, or addictions. This Pluto retrograde energy will be putting what it is you need to let go of in your face. If anyone or thing is siphoning your energy, Earth signs will have to build enough strength to acknowledge it, and let it go.
Water signs will be pushed into following the rules and playing by the book! This wave of Pluto retrograde energy will make it near impossible for you not to engage in the status quo. This could mean paying off all of your bills, abiding by legal or technical procedures, or doing "the right thing," by your friends, family, and spouses.
Fire signs will be faced with deciding not to engage in petty conflict, dirty games, or unhealthy competition. The Pluto retrograde will push many fire signs away from toxicity, and this even includes where you have been too difficult for your own good. Ultimately the choice is yours not to stoop down into low vibration.
For air signs, the Pluto retrograde energy might have you revert back to old drama and pain, for the sake of seeing if there was something that you missed. Many of you might be wondering if salvaging a tainted relationship is worth it. One part of you might be missing old friendships, while the other part wants nothing to do with it. It's up to you to see if any of it is worth the backtracking.
Mars Retrograde
Mars entered retrograde on June 26 and will go direct on August 27. It has everything to do with how your energy is vibrating, and what actions you need to take for your life.
Earth signs will really be feeling the Mars retrograde pressure when it comes to finances and love. Earth signs love the lap of luxury and all the nice things, but this retrograde might cause you to overspend and dip into savings. It is summertime, and we all want to splurge, but be careful! When it comes to romance, be wary of making decisions and advances under the influence. Spur-of-the-moment energy might be cause for regret later on.
Water signs will be hit with a wave of retrograde energy that will amplify their introverted nature. Mars is a volatile planet energetically, so when paired with self-love, self-care, and self-introspection, water signs might go through it internally. Instead of fighting this energy, openly communicate with your inner self to uncover what is truly important for you and your life in the moment and what makes you whole.
Fire signs are in for a bumpy energetic ride under this Mars retrograde. This energy will cause a lot of fire signs to want to spend time on their own and get grounded. With your spitfire energy, you could attract a frenzy of people around you who could either make things better or worse in your experience. This energy will cause you to do more pre-screening and observation of those around you before allowing them into your space.
Some air signs might be feeling a bit aloof in this Mars retrograde energy. You might have a hard time with memory, making decisions, calling shots, or being inactive. There could be a lot of waiting until the last minute to get things done, and wasting a lot of time. The summer time is the best season to pick up new hobbies, try new things, and gain new experiences. Get active, get out there, and enjoy life in the present moments.
Now that you have an idea of how each retrograde will affect your life, check out what the summer solstice gateway has in mind for your individual zodiac sign by clicking through the gallery below:
1.Aries
The summer solstice energy has influenced many Aries signs to purge out any leftover grievances of the first half of 2018, and make way for moving forward with your life. It's all about letting go of what no longer serves you, and what holds you back from manifesting the life that you want to live. The summer solstice gateway is sparking energy and enthusiasm back into your to-do lists and goals. There is no more sitting on what you have lost, and more focus on what there is to gain.
Eclipse Affirmation: "It's out with the old, and in with the new, what's in the past is in the past, and I feel brand new. I'm ready to manifest all of my heart desires and transform my experience, and vibrate higher."
2.Taurus
The summer solstice energy is not completely sunny for everyone. Many Taureans were hit with a wave of confusion and apprehension about their next steps. Taurus signs are really motivated and hardworking people, but when we hit a wall, it could be hard to pick up steam. Anxiety and stress will overpower you if you let it. Recognize how far you have come, and what you have built to give yourself the boost of confidence you need to move forward. One great thing about the summer solstice is that clarity can come overnight!
Eclipse Affirmation: "I have been through a lot, and I have overcome many obstacles. Because I am here, I am undefeated, and my intuition and higher self never steer me wrong."
3.Gemini
Many Geminis have come through a tough period of self-love and inward growth that has benefited their self-confidence and outlook. The summer solstice gateway is like a new start for Geminis who have turned a tide in any area of life. With this burst of energy and lifted spirits, you may find a new opportunity to expand yourself externally and financially, by recognizing doors you previously thought were closed to you. If you have done the work, enjoy the benefits of abundance that comes from it.
Eclipse Affirmation: "I am ready, dedicated, and focused on fulfilling all of my goals, and prosper financially, emotionally, and spiritually."
4.Cancer
Many Cancers out there have become emboldened to turn a new leaf in any area of life. The summer solstice gateway carries a lot of "Boss up" energy for Cancers out there. Where you have held onto the past, or became complacent in your present, you are ready to take a step in a new direction. This could be a new career path, love interest, or simply reinventing yourself. This summer energy carries a lot of empowerment.
Eclipse Affirmation: "I move past life's hardships, and pitfalls with a peace of mind and grace, and I am open to receive blessings and reasons to celebrate."
5.Leo
The summer solstice energy for Leo signs is asking you all to stop sitting on your dreams and aspirations because you are worried that they won't work out. If you have been in a place where you have been mentally going back and forth in your mind about how things will develop in your life, it's time for you to take that big leap of faith. This can apply to multiple areas of life, whether it is fitness, business, or simply deciding to do something nice for yourself. It's time to stop wishing you were in another place, and step into your future. Don't let the summer pass you by without making a step towards your next milestone.
Eclipse Affirmation: "I am ready to step out of my comfort zone and embrace new horizons. Opportunity to expand my external reality is readily available, if I make the effort and reach for it."
6.Virgo
Many Virgos have been given the summer solstice green light to make a move when it comes to love! The energy warns you however not to move too fast in one direction if you are single. Take your time before you go into overdrive with the wrong person who you are not truly aligned with. Communication will be key, whether you are single or taken. You might find yourself not being on the same page as the people in your life, all for the simple fact that something has been miscommunicated. Be sure not to get carried away by the wrong information, or unnecessary distractions this summer.
Eclipse Affirmation: "I will make sure to take my time when making serious decisions or judgment calls about anything in my life. I won't let my emotions get the best of me, and I will be sure to remain grounded."
7.Libra
For Libras, the summer solstice is giving you a big boost in your divine masculine energy. You might find yourself being more bold, outspoken, and protective of your peace. Make sure you maintain balance, and know when it is necessary for you to assert your power and when it's necessary for you to contain your prowess. This energy is all about knowing when to pick and choose your battles for the sake of living your best life this summer. Not every action needs a reaction, and this summer solstice gateway might test your patience a little bit.
Eclipse Affirmation: "I will know when a negative situation does not serve me, and will not give any energy to anything that is not worthy my attention. I will let those things go with ease."
8.Scorpio
The summer solstice energy for Scorpios out there is asking you all to be cool as a cucumber in this summer heat. It's all about balancing where you put your energy and making the conscious decision to dodge unnecessary drama and toxic people, environments, and circumstances. It's about moving forward and walking away from old BS. It's about being able to say the simple two letter word - NO. Enjoy the peace from all the damage control you might have done in the past months. If anyone is "big mad," in your life, let them do so - that way.
Eclipse Affirmation: "I'm ready to be free-spirited and unbothered by anyone looking to cause me any grief. I'm doing my own thing, and I don't need any negative vibes."
9.Sagittarius
The summer solstice energy for Sagittarians is all about getting back on track or catching up from any lost steam or derailments from the first half of the year. If anything has caused some trouble in your life, you are more than ready to redirect your focus and reinstate faith in your soul's ability to lead you out of a dark or confusing place. It's truly about making the best of any situation and understanding that nothing can hold you back for too long. You have everything you need to live your best life within yourself.
Eclipse Affirmation: "I am ready to win big this summer and make quantum leaps towards success, recognition, community, and financial gain."
10. Capricorn
The summer solstice energy brings about a double energy for the Capricorn signs out there. On one hand, you might experience being more focused on what it is that you want to accomplish, and coming up with out of the box ideas for financial growth and on the other hand, you might find yourself wanting to play more than you work. Since this is the season of fun, this is very understandable! Just make sure that you find a balance between work and play, as well as refining any unorthodox ideas for your Capricorn nature into something that is actually doable.
Eclipse Affirmation: "I am not going to fight my desire to tread unfamiliar territory, and embrace how I may be changing in my outlook, beliefs, and expectations."
11. Aquarius
The summer solstice gateway is driving many Aquarians to connect with people who understand them on deeper spiritual and energetic level. If you find that you are outgrowing some of the people around you, it might be time to enter spaces where you can relate to communities of like-minded individuals. If you feel that the people around you currently take more than they give, this is a sign that you should make an effort to find people you vibe with. What good is the summer if you don't have tribe to share new experiences with?
Eclipse Affirmation: "I am open to new and unexpected experiences and opportunities. I release my fear of the unknown, and I am deciding to go with the flow."
12. Pisces
The summer solstice gateway energy is pushing a lot of Pisces out of remission. Wherever you have been stagnant in any area of life, is in for a cable jump! It might be a hard pill to swallow for some signs, but the realization that nothing will happen in your external reality unless you light some fire under feet will likely hit home. You might realize that whatever blockage has been preventing you from moving on will become as relentless as the summer heat. If time waits for nobody, then you'd better get moving!
Eclipse Affirmation: "I am ready to release whatever has been holding me back from manifesting abundance, whether it's self-doubt, bad association, or anything having to do with lack consciousness."
All astrological Tarotscopes channeled via Tarot Cards! For your own Intuitive Channeled Healing Session, follow @Melanade_Stand on IG and send an inquiry via DM!
Featured GIF by Coveteur
Fontaine Felisha Foxworth is a writer and creative entrepreneur from Brooklyn New York. She is currently on the West Coast working on creating a TV Pilot called "Finding Fontaine", that details the nomadic journey of her life so far. Keep up with her shenanigans @famoustaine on IG.
Your May 2025 Monthly Horoscopes Are All About Blooming Softly & Trusting Divine Timing
May is about being patient, nurturing your dreams, and creating beauty in your world. This is a more stable and generous month than the chaos that April brought, and we get an opportunity for closure, healing, and rejuvenation this month. We are still amid some important retrograde transits, but these are ones we can navigate better by grounding our energy in the present moment, and not allowing ourselves to stress over the what-ifs.
With the Sun in Taurus for most of the month, May reminds us that there is beauty in finding your peace and not allowing anyone to disrupt that.
Pluto goes retrograde in Aquarius from May 4 until October 13, and this will be a time of remembering your power when it comes to your purpose, innovations, and the ability to attract support into your life. Mercury moves into Taurus on May 10, making this a good time for negotiations, creating new plans financially, and sticking to your word on something that holds value to you. The Full Moon of the month occurs in Scorpio on May 12, and this is the Flower Moon of the year, signifying growth and seeing the beauty in your life.
This Full Moon is all about letting go of what doesn’t feel authentic or resonate with you emotionally, and about experiencing more closure and healing within relationship matters.
Your May 2025: A Monthly Overview
Gemini Season officially begins on May 20, and we enter air sign energy, which is good for communication, business, and coming up with inspiring and new ideas. On May 24, Saturn enters Aries, beginning its new transit where it will remain for the next few years. Saturn in Aries is bold, direct, and straightforward, but so are its lessons. There is a gift in resilience and finding your strength during this time, and this transit will show you where your power is, but it may challenge you to confront self-limiting behavior in the process.
Mercury enters Gemini on May 25, and Mercury loves being here. Mercury in Gemini is the creative genius, and this is a month of aligning yourself with this energy. On May 26, we have a New Moon in Gemini, and it’s time to set your intentions for where you want a communication breakthrough in your life, and what new ideas you want to start planting the seeds for. This is a good New Moon for networking, exchanging ideas, having more fun, and getting inspired.
Article continues after the jump.
May 2025 Horoscopes for Every Zodiac Sign
Keep reading for your sun, moon, and rising sign below to see what May has in store for you.
ARIES
The impact from April is finally behind you, and you get to move forward this month, Aries. After a month of retrogrades and Eclipses, you are starting to see the progress of what you have been working towards financially this year. The Sun is in your 2nd house of abundance, self-confidence, and values this month, and you are putting your dreams here first.
With Venus also in Aries for the entire month of May, you are feeling the support within and without this month, and this is a beautiful month unfolding.
On May 24, Saturn enters your sign, beginning its transit in Aries, which will last for the next few years. Saturn is the master of tough love, and you are going to be learning a lot about yourself during his time and going through a growth spurt. The New Moon of May is at the end of the month on May 26 and will be giving you the answers and clarity you have been looking for, highlighting open communication in your life. Overall, this is your month of fewer obstacles and more progress.
TAURUS
Taurus Season is officially underway, and you are the main character right now, Taurus. Remember that. This month is about trusting your intuition and the timing of things, and knowing that things are working in your favor. With Venus, your ruling planet, in your 12th house for the month, you are seeking a lot of closure and culmination right now and are healing what was. Mercury enters your sign from May 10 until May 25, and it’s all about the perspectives you are gaining right now.
Don’t be afraid to ask the important questions and get down to the bottom of things that have been worrying you. On May 12, there is a Full Moon in your 7th house of partnership, and you are closing the door on what has not been working for you in love. You are seeing the clarity of what you need within your emotional world and how you want to navigate the changes you have been through here now.
GEMINI
May is a new beginning for you, Gemini. You have a lot of energy and vitality with you this month, and you are ready to accomplish some personal goals and intentions of yours. For most of the month, the Sun is in your house of closure and healing, and you are finding yourself rejuvenated from the transformations you have been through. Gemini Season officially begins on May 20, and with the Sun in your sign, nothing is holding you back from shining and living in your truth right now.
On May 25, Mercury enters Gemini until June 8, and Mercury loves being in your sign, as this is your planetary ruler.
Mercury in Gemini is forward-thinking, quick, and intelligent. You are coming up with solutions to previous challenges or obstacles, and overcoming something that has felt restrictive mentally. Before the month ends, there is a New Moon in Gemini on May 26, and this New Moon is one of the best times of the year for you to set your intentions and manifest your dreams. Remember you are worthy of what you are setting out to accomplish this month, Gemini.
CANCER
Cancer, this month requires you to slow down, take care of your health, and allow things to come to fruition the way they are meant to. There is a chance you could be overthinking more than usual this month, and you are being reminded that there is only so much that is in your control, and to give yourself some more grace. The Full Moon in Scorpio on May 12 will help you gain a little more clarity of the heart and is going to be a time of feeling the love and appreciation in your life.
Saturn enters your 10th house of career on May 24, remaining here over the next few years, and you are getting an opportunity to grow and discover where you may have been limiting yourself professionally, socially, or within your aspirations in life. This time is all about reminding yourself that you deserve recognition for the work you do, but that you must also be the one believing in yourself as well. On May 12, there is a New Moon in your house of emotional healing, and you are seeing the gifts of alone time, safe spaces, and tending to your creative inklings at the end of the month.
LEO
This month is an opportunity for a new beginning in love and progress within your emotional world, Leo. You are learning to trust your intuition more, and you are putting more of your energy into your heart’s desires. With the Sun in your 10th house for most of the month, you are shining in your truth and remaining confident in your goals in life.
Venus is in your house of adventure for the entire month, and this is a good time for experiencing romance while traveling or getting out of your comfort zone a little.
Saturn makes a significant move from Pisces into Aries at the end of the month and enters your 9th house. With Saturn here, you will be learning more about what mental growth and clarity mean to you, and this is a good time to dedicate yourself to higher education, traveling, gaining a new perspective, and honoring your integrity and values. The New Moon of the month is on May 26, creating magic within your friendships and community.
You are leaving this month with hope in your heart and new plans for the future.
VIRGO
May is a month of abundance and fruition for you, Virgo. Your dreams and intentions are coming to fruition, and you are owning that which you have created for yourself. With Venus in Aries, this is a good time for seeing support in your life financially, dedicating yourself to your commitments and responsibilities, and seeing the gifts in that. On May 12, there is a Full Moon in your 3rd house of communication, and this is an intuitive time for you, giving you the strength needed to close the chapter on what you don’t resonate with anymore.
On May 24, Saturn enters your house of shared finances, rebirth, intimacy, and resources, and over the next few years, you will be learning the importance of connecting with people who truly have your best interest at heart, and not committing to what feels unstable. Before the month ends, we have a New Moon in Gemini in your house of career, and this is a good time to manifest and set your intentions for where you want to see professional growth in your life.
Overall, May is about embracing your freedom while honoring the people and connections that help you grow and make you feel more secure in life.
LIBRA
This is a month of feeling empowered and ready to take on anything that comes your way, Libra. You are inspired by the progress you are making in your life right now, and with Venus in your 7th house of love, you are being well-received. This is a month of finding your balance between your path and the growth of your relationships, and there is a sense of support, harmony, and love in your life in May.
You are owning your authenticity and living in your truth fully, and this energy is magnetic.
However, Saturn also enters your 7th house of love this month, where it will remain for the next few years. Saturn empowers and helps you grow, but you can also feel a little more challenged within your relationships during this time. The more you can own your wants and needs, the more you can find vulnerability and support within your relationships. On May 26, a New Moon in a fellow air sign occurs and happens in your 9th house, creating a chance at a new adventure and an opportunity to discover some new inspiration.
SCORPIO
May is about believing in the impossible, Scorpio. It’s time to take a leap of faith in yourself and to remember your power. You are seeking a new beginning in your life, and with the Sun in your 7th house of love for most of the month, you are being supported and encouraged in the process. Pluto, one of your ruling planets, goes retrograde in your house of home and family from May 4 until October, and you are gaining clarity on the people and support systems you can rely on more.
The Full Moon of the month is in your sign on May 12, and this is the Flower Moon of the year. You are in full bloom and ready for whatever is next for you, and this is beautiful. Previous intentions and goals come to fruition for you overall in mid-May, and there is a lot to look forward to right now as you are getting excited about it all. Before the month ends, we have a New Moon in Gemini in your 8th house, creating a sense of empowerment through what you are looking to change and transform in your life right now.
This month is about not being afraid to take more risks and doing things your own way.
SAGITTARIUS
May is a beautiful month of magic, success, and good fortune, Sagittarius. You are feeling lucky this month and are attracting success to you in many different areas of your life. Venus, the planet of love, is in your 5th house of romance for most of the month, and you are enjoying your life, feeling the love within your heart, and expressing yourself freely in May. You are a magnet for your manifestations, and dreams are coming true for you this month, Sag.
On May 12, we have a Full Moon happening in your house of endings and closure, and you are closing out a big chapter in your life this month.
You are letting go of old pain or emotional experiences and choosing not to repeat a pattern that left you feeling hopeless before. On May 26, we have a New Moon in your sister sign, Gemini, enhancing your need for love, connection, and relationship development this month. This is a great New Moon to set your intentions for what partnerships you want to see grow, heal, and come to fruition for you. Overall, May is your month of fruition, balance, and believing in the magic in your life.
CAPRICORN
May is about slowing down and allowing yourself to find the answers you have been looking for, Capricorn. This isn’t the time to rush your progress or doubt where you are in life. The Sun is in your 5th house, and this is good for finding more time for fun, pleasure, self-care, and asking your heart what it needs. With Pluto going retrograde in your 2nd house of values and income, you are being reminded to hold yourself with integrity and to know that you are worthy of the things you are asking for.
The Full Moon on May 12 is a beautiful time to connect with loved ones or those who inspire you. The universe wants to show you that you are not alone this month and that you deserve to live a life where you can enjoy yourself more and manifest your dreams, rather than believing everything needs to be a challenge to be worthy. Saturn, your ruling planet, then enters your 4th house of home and family, and over the next few years, you are going to be rediscovering what home means to you.
AQUARIUS
Your guidance for May is to trust that what is falling from your life or changing for you is doing so for your benefit, Aquarius. Trust that what is happening is happening for you and not to you, and don’t doubt that you will rebuild from this. With Pluto going retrograde in your sign from May 4 until October 13, you need a break from some of the confusion you have been feeling in your personal life, and you are getting a chance to gain a new perspective this month.
Use this time to get inspired by change rather than let it bring you down, and ground yourself in the present moment more.
Saturn enters Aries in May, where it will remain for the next few years, helping you grow in the areas of your life that have to do with communication, networking, transportation, siblings, and education. You will be learning a lot during this time and will be finding new outlets for self-expression and communication. Before the month ends, we have a New Moon in Gemini occurring in your 5th house of romance, pleasure, hobbies, and entertainment, and after a month of navigating endings, changes, and closures, you are ready for a fresh start and are receiving one in love now.
PISCES
Allow what is to be, be, Pisces. May is a month of allowing yourself to trust the timing of the universe and not giving up hope that things are going to turn out beautifully for you. On May 12, there is a Full Moon in fellow water sign, Scorpio, and this is a time to get inspired and see the benefits of closure. This Full Moon is about gaining a new perspective and not doubting what is clearer to you now, that you are worthy of a new beginning.
On May 24, Saturn moves into your 2nd house of income, and you are going to be moving through a journey of developing financially, and working on maintaining stability while building new foundations in your life. The New Moon in Gemini at the end of the month is about setting your intentions for your home and family life and creating some new energy here. Overall, May is your month of breaking ground on the things you want to create for yourself and trusting the timing of how things are unfolding.
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7 Black Celebrity Moms Who Got Real About Every Layer Of Motherhood
As with any journey, motherhood comes with its highs and lows, and ebbs and flows. And Black moms, especially those in the spotlight, have never shied away from keeping it real about the truth behind the beautiful chaos of raising children.
From navigating single parenthood and fertility struggles to embracing the unexpected joy and power that comes with raising children, their words reflect the truth of it all. Whether it’s naming the pain, laughing through the chaos, or honoring the love that keeps them going, these moms didn’t sugarcoat a thing.
Below, we’ve rounded up quotes that offer a raw, nuanced, and deeply personal glimpse into what motherhood really feels like.
Taraji P. Henson
On Michelle Obama's podcast, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, Taraji P. Henson got real about the generational cycle of single motherhood in her family, and not wishing that on her "worst enemy." She shared in the episode:
"It's just what I'm used to. Unlearning that trauma is where I am now."
Taraji also recalled a moment when her son Marcell was four years old and crying while she was completely spent and had nothing left to give:
"I was so tired, I wanted to cry. I wouldn’t wish being a single parent on my worst enemy, literally, because, think about when you’re exhausted and it’s like, the baby’s crying. ‘Oh, can you go get him, honey?’ There was no honey. I was honey. So If I work 12 hours and I come. If the baby’s sick. Everything fell on me."
Cree Summer
In a StyleLikeU interview, Cree Summer talked about the power of sisterhood in her motherhood journey, crediting them for holding her down as she navigated parenting her daughters as a single mom. She revealed that while initially she viewed becoming a single mother as the "greatest fear of my life," that fear transformed into a deep joy:
"I often find when you go through a separation and you’re on your own as a single mother, boy, you sure find what sisterhood is about for real, right ‘cause your sisters come in, especially the ones that have been through it already. They come in and they tell you that there is another side."
She also reflected on how motherhood, even solo, became her deepest source of love:
"The thing that I feared the most is the thing I love the most. I feared doing it on my own, and I love doing it on my own. Who would've known?"
Article continues after the video.
Kelly Rowland
In her candid book, Whoa Baby!, Kelly Rowland gave new moms everywhere permission to say, "WTF is happening to me?"—and still be head-over-heels in love with their baby. She shared what that messy, beautiful, body-shocking postpartum moment really felt like:
"In the blink of an eye, everything was all about Titan. And of course, that’s what it is to be a parent — that’s exactly how it’s supposed to be. I, too, was feeling the most incredible love I had ever experienced for that tiny little man who had just emerged from my body. But I was also feeling an incredible pain in my vajayjay and wondering if I’d ever walk again."
She continued:
"I didn’t realize how hard it would be for me to have a bowel movement or breastfeed or even sleep... I was also feeling exhausted and overwhelmed and a little bewildered."
Halle Berry
For Halle Berry, becoming a mom in her 40s brought clarity and emotional maturity she didn't have in her 20s. And she's grateful for the timing of her life. On The Wendy Williams Show, she once shared:
"I’m a much better mother at 46, or 41 when I had her, than if I were 21 or 25. I was just a little baby, just trying to figure it out, trying to figure out who I was, let alone have the responsibility of trying to help another little soul develop and grow… I’m so glad I waited."
And in another interview withHello!, she spoke honestly about motherhood and how it reshaped her priorities without sacrificing her purpose:
"It’s wildly affected my life. I haven’t worked as much since I had my daughter. I have another priority and she’s it. But I do want to send her the clear message that working is important and doing something that you love ― that validates you, or makes you feel you are giving yourself to the world ― is really important, so I will keep working."
Gabrielle Union
Gabrielle Union has always been someone who is unafraid of owning her truth, especially in the public eye. That level of transparency extends to her approach to talking about her struggles with infertility. In an interview, she touched on just how invasive conversations about becoming a mother can be.
"For so many women, and not just women in the spotlight, people feel very entitled to know, [they ask] ‘Do you want kids?’ A lot of people, especially people that have fertility issues, just say ‘no’ because that’s a lot easier than being honest about whatever is actually going on. People mean so well, but they have no idea the harm or frustration it can cause."
She went on to add:
"Once a month, I look like I’m in my second trimester because I’m bloated. It leads to the questions and it leads to the rumors, and anytime I go into a doctor’s office, I feel like I’m a member of SEAL Team Six undercover because I don’t want people to speculate."
Tika Sumpter
In an interview with Mother Mag, Tika Sumpter opened up about how motherhood deepened her self-awareness and helped her grow emotionally, not just for herself but also for her daughter:
"Motherhood has taught me to see myself more clearly. It’s made me realize where I’ve gone wrong in the past, and how important it is to take accountability. Like, apologizing quickly when I need to. It’s also helped me slow down, take a breath, and express my feelings better. I know that if I can’t express my emotions in a healthy way, I can’t teach my daughter how to do the same."
The actress and writer also spoke to the often complicated experience of preserving her identity while embracing the one she has as a mom:
"In terms of identity, motherhood has shown me that I’m more than ‘just a mom.’ Don’t get me wrong, being a mother is one of the most fulfilling parts of my life, but I’m also an entrepreneur, a wife, a friend, and so much more. I’ve learned that it’s okay for my identity to keep shifting. It took time to realize that I didn’t have to lose myself in motherhood. I can still pursue my dreams and honor all the parts of who I am."
Ciara
In an interview with PureWow, Ciara dished about the way motherhood has empowered her and elevated her life on every level:
"Motherhood has just shown me there's really nothing we can't do as women. I feel really empowered having my kids in my life. By far, my greatest accomplishment is having them."
The mother of four also went on to say:
"My life has been better. I can't even imagine my life without them... They motivate me. I hope that my kids can look at me and say, 'Anything is possible. Mommy went after what she wanted to achieve, and she did it."
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