The Agony and the Ecstacy

My mother used to say that childbirth hurt like hell, but then it was over and you forgot the pain.

For a full three days after I gave birth I didn't believe her.

After the pain and trauma washed over me like a bloody wave, I never looked back.

The dimly lit room. The hands of strangers clawing at the heart monitors. The firm, steady hand of my husband. My mother massaging my legs. My absent-minded but wise doctor. The incomptent tech. The able young nurse with the timely exortation to "breathe out the pain." And finally, miraculously, unexpectedly, the presentation of a curled up little boy who had been beating out his urgent cry for release.

One year later I remember it all with a thrill.

I'd do it again and more to get you into my arms, into this world.