There is nothing ordinary about birth

Last week I was able to see something pretty special. Something that happens all over the world every single day, but was a first for me. I was able to witness the birth of a baby, and it was magical – a dream come true. Although thousands of babies are born every single day, there is nothing ordinary about birth. It is extraordinary in every way.

A few months ago one of my sisters asked how I would feel if she asked me to be one of her birthing partners. I said I would love to (whilst secretly wanting to explode with glee), and after discussing with her husband she officially asked me – and of course, I said yes! Since giving birth to my own children, I have always wanted to be present at the birth of a baby. However, it is not the easiest experience to engineer (unless you are a health professional). Birth fascinates me. Our bodies are powerful, and after each of my births I have been left in awe of my body – of what it accomplished.

Not long ago my sister gave birth to a perfect baby boy, and I was right next to her. I saw his hair, then his head and finally his strong, magnificent body entering into the world. It was marvellous, overwhelming and one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen. Just incredible. My sister was so calm and collected (although she admitted she didn’t feel that way), and it was a privilege that I will cherish forever.

Witnessing a birth reaffirmed my beliefs that we are all here for a reason, that we all have a special purpose and there is more to life than just being born, living and then dying. Life is no accident, and we all have a unique potential to fulfil.

E xx

p.s. This is a photo of Otto on the day he was born – their baby is not mine to share.