I've just had a nice long phone conversation with a friend who just moved north. We talked about birth experiences, since we are both awaiting the birth of a grandchild at the same time. Then painting, Hawaiian shells, the Turner art exhibit and other diverse topics. The point was to feel connected, even though we can't see each other. I never mind taking this time out of whatever I'm doing, and it fortifies me for my daily life, which is filled with routines and duties and the ordinary stuff of life.
My friend had a 72 hours labor the first time and a 7 hour labor the second. My four labors were 5 hours, 29 minutes, 2 hours and 6 hours. I know how fortunate I am, and appreciate that other's experiences might give them a different view about childbirth. But we both understand that we were fortunate to have healthy babies, and that there are hidden dangers that arise even in labor and delivery. We know not every baby is perfect, not every experience a happy one, and that no doctor or hospital or procedure can guarantee us anything. So we are holding our breath, praying for our children and grandchildren to make it through the process successfully. Each will have similar but vastly different experiences. It's universal and very, very particular.
Respecting difference and being in awe of the gift of life. These are lessons relearned again and again.
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