Transformation: Here's to the Partners!

Each time we watch a simple video called "Everyday Miracles" in  Lamaze® class, I tell my students to watch the partners... Watch them for their expressions, their emotions, and the way in which they transform in front of our eyes. The baby is born, and so is a mother. But, sometimes I think it's easy to forget that a father (or co-parent) is also born - in the blink of an eye, they go from partner/husband to protector and caregiver for this little bundle of life. There are tears, deep sighs, fits of laughter, and great joy.

I tell my clients and students to be prepared to love the mother of their child even more than they do now - That with each baby that is born and therefore grows their family, so will their love grow. Ten-fold. And so will the love that the mother has for her partner. I remember distinctly, after the birth of each of my children, looking at my husband in a much different light. After all, it was his love that helped me through the most significant and intense moments of my life. He loves me more now, too, I am convinced of it. It is tangible.

I see it on the faces of the partners at each birth I attend. I see them fall more deeply in love. I literally WATCH them become a parent (or become the parent of yet another new life). It is transformative. And powerful. And one of the greatest joys of my job.

So, here's to the husbands... boyfriends... partners... companions... significant others... Whatever label they carry. Thank you for carrying the load of labor, birth, and parenthood along with the mama. May you forever be transformed!

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