“We experience birth so differently from the intimate spaces of our bodies and minds, it feels disingenuous to strike comparisons and place value judgments. Any woman who experiences the vulnerability of carrying a child in her body (or heart) and bringing it earthside is heroic in my estimation. This idea that there is a special medal danging on the tree for going without meds makes us undervalue ourselves and depreciate the ordeals we have endured. Loss moms, adoptive moms, cesarean birth mothers…We all open. We all tear, somewhere (body, heart, soul). We all both wildly embrace and struggle to embrace these experiences. It all takes courage and that courage is always worth celebrating.” — Rachel Lorena Brown
All to often we find ways to divide ourselves and our birth stories are no exceptions. We tell each other that if you had a pregnancy loss you are not a mother, if you chose pain medications you are weak, if you had a cesarean section you are a failure. We have all endured in our own way and do not deserve negative talk. We should instead find solace in our fellow POWERHOUSES, celebrate and support one another along each of our journeys for the road will be filled with enough obstacles.
For my POWERHOUSEs who chose to have a natural birth, thank you for continuing to remind us how strong and capable we are.
For my POWERHOUSEs whose precious gift was taken to soon, I keep you in my prayers. May you find comfort and healing with each new day. I exalt you for caring on.
For my POWERHOUSEs who chose to exercise your right to have pain medication I honor your choice.
For my POWERHOUSEs who carry the surgical scar of motherhood I applaud your bravery.
Our bodies and our memories will forever hold our stories. Your body is beautiful in every way!
To all my mothers and those trying to conceive, I SALUTE You!
Birth Your Way
