One of the things I've loved about being pregnant is the bond I have with other women who've also had children. We connect silently through out the day as well as in those moments where we stop and take time to share.
When the baby bump really starts showing, the questions begin about the due date, the gender, just everything. Then, if you spend enough time with another woman, the stories also start up. We all tend to share our birthing stories. It's as if its a badge we wear, just waiting for the proper opportunity to discuss how it was achieved.
I must say, I too, enjoy listening to these stories as well as sharing the birth stories of my two boys. There is always so much more to learn about this whole process and I'm always left in awe at the accomplishments that have been made. It's a big moment in a woman's world when she gives birth, and its a true priviledge and honor to share it with others. Whatever the circumstances surrounding her baby, there is always a single moment when the world spilts open, when her soul separates, and what is left are two distinct human begins, mom and baby.
My own baby inside this belly will eventually make his/her way out into the world and from that moment on my heart will be forever torn, taking a small piece of myself, not realizing each pain he/she feels I feel too, but then also each moment of joy I share as well. It's as if I'm reliving life over and over again, not directly in the sence of through my own identity but through their eyes; I just can't help but experience with them what they encounter and learn from.
I'd like to just take a moment and reach out to all women in a time of understanding. Whenever I pass you in a grocery store or just out shopping, I smile because we are connected. Bringing children into this world is not our only purpose, but it definitly ranks up there with unbelievably-awesome. And to those women who arent yet mothers or who dont even plan on ever having children, we will always share a particular bond just by being women and just by realizing the power we have to help create life. Also, to my friends and family who have lossed babies, my heart breaks as well with your sadness. I understand the pain that my pregnancy may cause you, but it should also bring you hope and encouragement that life will always continue and there will always be more moments of joy and peace for us all.
:)