Surrounded by Love; Supported by Friends

My friends planned a blessingway for me to celebrate my last pregnancy and prepare me for the birth. It was a beautiful evening surrounded by friends. One friend gave me a pedicure, which was a huge feat(no pun intended). Another painted my belly with henna creating a beautiful work of art. All gathered and showered me with kindness. Tibetan Prayer flags were created with each person writing a hope or wish for the birth and the baby. Seven prepared wishes were also included: May this baby’s life be filled with joy and happiness, may this baby’s life be filled with good friends and mutual respect, may this baby’s life be filled with the support and care of family, may this baby’s life be filled with health of body and spirit. may this baby’s life be filled with wisdom and insight, may this baby’s life be filled with laughter and humor, may this baby’s life be filled with warmth and love.

Candles were given out to be lit when I go into labor and as a means of letting everyone know when the baby was born.

Several blessings were given to complete the evening.

First Blessing

In every birth, blessed is the wonder.

In every creation, blessed is the new beginning.

In every child, blessed is the life.

In every hope, blessed is the potential.

In every transition, blessed is the beginning.

In every existence, blessed are the possibilities.

In every love, blessed are the tears.

In every life, blessed is the love.

And—blessed are our children and the renewal and fulfillment they give to our family circle.

Second Blessing:

Let us support Heather in her journey to raise children, who will be strong enough to know when they are weak, and brave enough to face themselves when afraid; ones who will be proud and unbending in honest defeat, but humble and gentle in victory.

Let us support Heather in her journey to raise children whose hearts will be clear, whose goals will be high; children who will master themselves before they seek to master others; ones who will learn to laugh, yet never forget how to weep; ones who will reach into the future, yet never forget the past. Then their parents, will dare to whisper, “We, too, have been enriched.”