Relationships

I attended a beautiful birth this week - I am so blessed! The thing that struck me as we supported momma during labor was the blessing of relationships. Momma had the support of dad, an amazing team of nurses, two attentive doulas, a wonderful doctor, a caring family, and many eager friends. As a doula, I know that I can offer a special, unique relationship to a laboring woman - I can be a safe listening ear, an understanding gaze, a comforting touch, a supportive shoulder, a gentle word or suggestion. What I cannot offer is history; I cannot be the one who has watched her grow and nurtured her through childhood, loving her as only a mother can; I cannot be her rock, stabilizing her and showing love and concern and acceptance like a spouse or partner; I cannot give her medical care, observing and analyzing and interpreting data like her nurses and doctor can. I am not a best friend or a sister, but I offer a piece of the puzzle. And each mother's puzzle, each mother's need is a little different, and that's ok!

I think that sweet little baby will be incredibly supported by not just a loving family, but a loved family. That is a beautiful thing.

~*H