You gave a gift by allowing me

To be present while you labored
A hard day at the office cannot compare
To the work you put in
As contractions make a space for your
Little creation to enter our lives
Face to face
Breath to breath
The waiting place is made for you
Not yet, but soon
Your little one desires a new home
Your family created such a space amongst them
Solely for his heart
The rhythm of your heart melds with his to create a melody resounding in nurse stations
As fluids leak onto bed, onto floor
We wait with you
Your pain mirrored in your man’s face
“Just a little longer. You’re doing great.”
He whispers to you, himself, his son