karin dancy

Over the last few days, I actually slept through the night without waking up at 3am. Twice. And, I’m pleasantly shocked. 

The last few years for this midlife mama have meant early morning wake-up calls. Trudging to the restroom, wild hair all over my head, one eye always shut tight, trying not to walk into a wall. 

While many are snoring around 3am, others find ourselves wide awake, staring at the ceiling. Like me, some of us wake because of shifting hormones. Maybe little ones need us to soothe them, or perhaps caregiving calls. There are seasons when rest feels like a luxury, not a guarantee. And, I’ve pretty much experienced them all.

For many of us, something often stirs us awake before our alarm clocks do their work. Life often layers itself on our shoulders and brings a companion . . . a worry, a memory, perhaps a responsibility. A whisper that reminds us we’re human and still learning to trust the One who watches over us.

So, sleeping straight through until morning, waking up with the sun peeking through our blinds? Chef’s kiss, with a taste of Heaven. Our shoulders feel lighter. Our thoughts feel clearer. It’s amazing how one full night of sleep can shift our entire day. 

I’m learning to honor both, the nights of deep sleep and the nights of gentle wakefulness. Both have their place. Both teach us something. And both can remind us that we are never alone in the dark. 🤎

Got your own 3am visitor?
I’d love to hear what it’s been gently placing on your heart.