It was a beautiful day -- on the day you were born. That is what Bridget and Heather's grandmother said every time she called her grandchildren on their birthdays. When I heard that, I wondered what I would say to Jack. On the day you were born I had no idea what the weather was like because I was so overwhelmed that I never thought to look out the window? No. I won't say that because I imagine that my narrative of my first few days and months with Jack will fade and instead be replaced with my feelings for him now. It is impossible to summarize this year. Certainly, it has been the hardest of my life but not the worst. I have made a lot of sacrifices but for a worthy exchange.
If I were to convey anything to Jack about his birthday I think I would steal the sentiments from the last few pages of the lovely children's book 'On the Day You Were Born.'
On the day you were born
the Earth turned, the moon pulled, the sun flared
and then, with a push, you slipped out of the dark quiet
where suddenly you could hear ...
a circle of people singing with voices familiar and clear
welcome to the spinning world the people sang
as they washed your tiny hands
welcome to the green earth, the people sang
as they wrapped your wet, slippery body
And as they held you close
they whispered into your open, curving ear
We are so glad you've come
1 comment:
Happy birthday to Jack. It's hard to believe a year has passed already- I look forward to meeting Jack one of these days-hopefully before he's 2 or 3 or more! I have really enjoyed reading your entries throughout the past year; thanks for sharing. I miss you!
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