After home birthing my second child almost three years ago, my support of natural childbirth brought me to a unique experience.

In October I was visiting my expectant friend when she suddenly went into labor. She had been leaking some fluid and having mild contractions throughout the day. It was 8 pm when I arrived and I expected we would have a nice, relaxing visit over tea.

By 9 pm she wanted to call the midwife and tell her she was having regular contractions. I was doubtful because there were no strong pains or bloody show or anything that made me believe she was in labor. She continued to visit with me, make more tea and take care of her five-year-old. By 9:20 she was upstairs on the toilet, emptying --- emptying --- emptying. Contractions were growing stronger by the minute; it was really happening.

The midwife had a fair distance to travel and had not arrived when my friend started pushing. She had gotten into bed and was still in control, much more than I was. The midwife called on her cellular phone that she was on her way, but so was the baby! The midwife coached me as the baby's head emerged, and then, Whooosh, that lovely sound and Splash, the baby's body swam into the world and into my hands. I began to breathe normally again.

I had been blessed with a true gift from Mother Nature. I was called to be close to a miracle, to touch it and feel it. The baby girl is beautiful and lucky not to be born into the uncaring hands of strangers, bright lights and loud noises. She came the way she wanted to, and I'm glad she did.

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