Our New One

It was a big week in our family. I have a new niece as of last week. My brother-in-law and his wife added a perfect little cutie-pie to the family. Mother and baby are happy and healthy. And we are so happy to have the new one. I am rarely accused of being relaxed or calm. Even in repose, I am thinking of what to do next. One antidote to my monkey-mind has always been taking a nap with a baby on my chest. I've yet to squish one and my body's instincts seem to keep them safe even when I am unconscious. It was one of my great discoveries when I first became a parent a very long time ago. And so, I have another chance to relax for a small bit. In the hospital where she was born, my sister leads roughly 200 nurses that work with babies in all states of health and sickness. Walking with my sister and seeing premature babies and the expressions on their families' faces reminded me that truly have no problems. It reminded me that my worrying is generally wasted and misplaced. As you would expect, my life's journey holds my attention most often. In the presence of the newly born, I find it easier to remember how each person is on their OWN unique journey. Seeing someone at the very beginning of all that awaits them causes me to contemplate what their lives will contain. Focus and care on another. That turns out to be the best way to relax.