Mama, You Are the Real Miracle

This past weekend a beautiful new baby came into the world. I was supposed to be there to document the family’s big day and photograph all of those beautiful, powerful, and REAL moments before, during, and after their birth experience. I wasn’t there though. Not for lack of wanting, but due to health safety measures implemented by the hospital and government, birth photographers are not currently allowed in the hospitals. While the Mama-to-be and I were both super bummed, we both absolutely knew that the decision was the right now. Everyone needs to take extra precautions in order to keep our communities safe right now.

Even though I wasn’t there, I still KNOW that the day was magical and emotional. I know that there were tears, big ol’ smiles, and lots of hugs. I know that there was hand holding and gentle touches. I know that Dad kissed Mom, and Mom had a brave smile on her face. I know that Dad stood back in awe as he watched his partner bring his child into the world. I know that he was feeling so many emotions as he met the small, helpless little person that his wife had been nurturing, protecting, and physically experiencing (mostly alone) for the last 9 months.

I know this all because I have been there… I have seen it… I have experienced it… and Dads like this write about it.

…She gave her labor every ounce of life and energy she had in her. And then gave a little bit more. And through it all, at the end of it she selflessly gave all of us a glimpse into what she has been enjoying exclusively to herself for the past 9 months. We all finally get to love and hold the boy that she sacrificed her body, comfort, energy, and self for. My son is an absolute miracle. Babies are absolute miracles. But to me, the greater miracle is his mother, who has shown me what selfless sacrifice really is. What love really is.

My wife is the real miracle.

~ William Trice Battle

Mother’s Day is coming up in just a few short days. This year the celebrations may look a bit different than before. No going out to brunch, or taking a break away from “Mom duties” to get a pedicure (I’ll be missing that one!), but I hope that all of you Moms out there are still acknowledged and celebrated for the amazing work that you did to become a “Mom”, as well as the amazing work that you’ve continued to do to be a good one!

And Dads? Don’t forget about your kids’ Mom this weekend… and don’t forget about the way that you felt about her in this moment:

If you live in the Vancouver, WA metro area and are interested in talking more about your own birth photography, I’d love to chat! Send me a message so that we can connect and start the conversation.