I hope we never forget.
Today we packed up six years of baby items to take to Goodwill. The thought that came to mind as I shut the trunk and metaphorical chapter in our lives was this: I hope we never forget.
I hope we never forget how hard it was to get them here; the trying and waiting and trying again.
I hope we never forget how difficult it was to carry them at times; the morning sickness, heart burn and back aches.
I hope we never forget how exhausting the first few weeks and months were: the recovery, the constant feedings and sleep deprivation.
I hope we never forget the tearful and joyous entries all of our babes made into this world.
I hope we never forget how a parent’s soul can simultaneously collapse from newborn exhaustion and grow several sizes as they feed that tiny person in the wee morning hours.
I hope we never forget the delight we found in all they did—the smiles, the coos and first real laughs.
I hope we never forget how the most beautiful parts of this life can also be so very difficult.
I hope we never forget because one day our children will need us to remember when they too are in those strangely grueling and wonderful newborn trenches.
I hope we never forget because there’s nothing like a baby to remind us of our humanity; the breath in our lungs, the strength of our legs, the connection we feel to those who love us—it’s all a gift.
I hope we never forget the miracle that is this life we get to live.
