They say there’s a reason for everything, even the most painful things in life. I know this is true, and during the pain I had a divine revelation: God is not a woman. You know, the nine months of pregnancy weren’t too bad. But not labour.

That is, until I saw her head. I was unprepared for the overwhelming rush of emotion I felt when I saw this tiny human being. I never loved anyone as much as I loved her. Any inconvenience or discomfort seemed so small and insignificant compared to the miracle I was looking at.

It’s funny. No one in the world could have convinced me that I would feel this wonderful about having a baby. I’m from that generation of women who are determined to have careers. No way was I going to stay home and take care of four children and one man the rest of my life.

It never occurred to me that a child could bring love to your life and the responsibility to care for her would be a pleasure. It’s nice to care for someone else besides myself for a change.

Catlyne has affected all of us. Father is happier.

He’s taking better care of himself so he will be around to teach her how to play softball. My sister practically moved in with us in hope that if she stays long enough, she’ll get custody of the baby on the basis of homestead rights. We all smile more, laugh more, love each other more. How come nobody told me how great this would be? So what’s a little pain? — Beliefnet.com (Concluded)