Day 29 - The Midwives Feared God

“But the midwives feared God, and did not do as the king of Egypt had commanded them, but let the boys live.” - Exodus 1:17

The International Definition of Midwifery:

My wife and I are excited to share our journey with you as we prepare for the arrival of our third child. At this stage of my fast, sharing openly has become an unexpected gift. We have made the decision to have a home birth, and we are fortunate to have a wonderful midwife named Em by our side.

Em is a partner in our health. She offers personalized and continuous care, always making sure our needs are met. Patient and assertive, Em believes in a non-interventive approach, meaning she limits the use of medical technology like sonograms unless it is necessary. She focuses on the natural aspects of pregnancy and birth, and only if there are any concerns, she refers us to medical professionals for further support.

Last year, as we were preparing for the birth of our second son, we had hoped for a home birth. However, circumstances changed when he arrived earlier than expected, making a hospital birth, by law, necessary.

We found ourselves in a hospital unfamiliar to us, dealing with a staff we didn't know, all amidst the challenges of the COVID vaccine mandates. I remember that day so clearly when my wife went into labor at home, and we had to act quickly for the sake of our unborn son. Thankfully, a friend had recently introduced us to a doctor in a nearby hospital, providing us with a connection in this defining moment.

In the midst of the urgency, I reached out to my sister who graciously offered to look after our oldest son. With our minds focused on the task at hand, we raced to the hospital, navigating the roads as my wife “guided me” through her labor pains. Upon reaching the hospital, I dropped her off at the ER, only to face parking challenges and strict security guards who wouldn't allow me to leave my car.

Time was ticking. My yelling wife assured me of the fact.

Meanwhile, unbeknownst to me, the hospital staff hurriedly whisked my wife away, following their strict COVID medical mandates.

As I finally made my way to the ER, clutching my phone with our midwife, Em, providing guidance from afar, I could feel the intensity of the moment. I didn't want to miss the birth of our son for anything, but I had no choice but to endure the slowing COVID mandates in place. Eventually, I reached my wife's side, seeing her lying on the table with a mask halfway on her face. Our son was ready to make his entrance into the world. At that moment, I updated Em while preparing to catch our precious boy.

Amidst the chaotic environment, some nurses expressed their cynicism, knowing we had preferred a home birth and questioning why our skilled midwife wasn't physically present. The tension in the room was palpable, and their backhanded comments added to the challenge. However, my wife delivered successfully, bringing our son into the world. I would find out later, Em drove forty five minutes to the hospital and was standing outside the hospital working to ensure we had everything we needed. She didn’t need to but she did.

Although our birth experience was not without difficulties, one thing was clear: we had someone, our midwife Em, who interceded on our behalf. She became an integral part of our family, providing support and guidance throughout the journey. Now, after the trauma we experienced, we now have the opportunity to try again, filled with hope and the knowledge that we have a trusted ally by our side.

Reflection:

As much as the western society promotes individualism, in my growing maturity, I realize more than ever how essential it is for people to stand in the gap for others. I’m thankful I have plenty who do this for me. As I work towards the last ten days of the fast, I feel myself interceding for many. Who intercedes on your behalf?

Practice:

Write a letter to someone who intercedes for you. Tell them how appreciative you are. The little things matter.