Fatherhood: Week 1.
I’m a dad now. I’m unsure really how much I want to write about this experience because it feels private, intimate, maybe even like holy work. I mentioned to my friends the day our daughter was born that I’ve never felt such a clear purpose to my life: to keep this baby alive while serving and supporting Celine as much as possible. I won’t go into detail, but Celine's inspiration throughout pregnancy, labor, and as a mom now is challenging to put into words. I’m sure countless dads have written or expressed in their caveman tongue this similar sentiment. Another note is that so many of the birthing and parenting resources I encountered in the months leading up to D-Day either felt patronizing, like men are some sort of clueless barbarians or overly fluffy and idealistic in their tone. Our daughter was born healthy after many hours of prayer throughout the past 9 months, and Celine is recovering well. I’m earnestly grateful and look forward to seeing what this new experience in life has to hold.
A few brief reflections I had in the first week:
You are as tired as they say
A healthy baby is truly a blessing
Marketing to new parents revolves either around peace of mind (fear) or idealism (‘you are not a good enough parent unless…’)
The medical system in Canada worked well for us and I’m relieved not to worry about an enormous bill afterward
I’m grateful that Celine and our daughter are healthy
Friends and support to look after animals while you are in the hospital is really essential
You never have enough photos of you new child
People have all kinds of reactions to the news and the name, no matter what you pick or hw you tell them
