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Laboring on Labor Day: An Examination of Self
Don’t discount your life experience, it shapes who you are!
Our personal histories are important in shaping who we are and who we become. I’m a naturally reflective person, but I think writing a blog at The Apples in My Orchard for the last five years has made me more so. I’m also a thinker and I spend a lot of time in my own head thinking about life, decisions, and even conversations. This is not done to rationalize but more to understand what makes me tick so I can become my “best self.”
Twenty-eight years ago today, I labored on Labor Day! Our firstborn was brought into the world after two unsuccessful attempts at carrying a pregnancy to term and my reaction was one of awe! I didn’t sleep that night, with my new baby by my side, not for any other reason than I couldn’t believe I was a mother! I kept thinking over and over, “I’m a mother!” The endorphins were flowing!
After two more unsuccessful pregnancies, five years later, I had our second son. My reaction to having him was pure joy! He was here and healthy! Although, I quickly moved his bassinet from our bedside to our large walk-in closet due to his tendency to grunt all night long! Still, joy pervaded everything in my life at the time. And, when I think of him at any time, the joy returns.
