Like a doula,
she sits with the birthing;
watching the pain
and providing some comfort,
she notices the push,
monitors the heart,
invites more breath.
No prescribing here,
she helps the not-yet-mother
through transition
to arrival of a tender joy.
There is tearing skin, and blood,
there is slowness, speedy intensity,
danger
– her sitting is alert, and poised for intervention.
No delivering here,
she has nothing to impart,
receiver of creation;
one who honours the journey,
helps to ease the labouring,
lets tears and laughter craft a celebration.