“The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.”
– Mark Twain
In 2010 I planned to leave in mid-September for a three month solo around the world trip. I simplified my itinerary to just Asia, with stops in Australia and New Zealand. Before I purchased my ticket my friend in Vancouver, Janine, asked me to be present at the birth of her daughter, whose due date was October 6th. Janine’s husband, Paul, was from Australia, so I said, “I could go and wander around Australia, or I can delay my trip and watch an Australian be born. I’ll stay.”
I planned my departure for October 15th in case the baby was late. Because I had less time I bought a ticket for only Japan, China, Hong Kong and Nepal. But I still felt agitated by my plans and didn’t know why. I was slipping into that place I’d been for the last year, where every little action, decision, project, every item added to my to do list overwhelmed me. My inner voice screamed to simplify even more. I wanted to end my trip yearning for more, not sick and burnt out. After going to Asia I planned to meet Cradoc in Santa Fe, New Mexico, drive to Tucson for the winter, then go to Spain for three months. I’d be on the road a total of nine months. I thought of the quote from author Bill Bryson, “Travel less, to travel better.” I cut out the Nepal stop.
On October 2nd, as Janine soaked in a tub of warm water and soft music played in the dimly lit birthing room, Jayda Laurel slipped into the world. Being part of a natural water birth with just Janine, Paul, a midwife and myself was a miracle. What I didn’t know then, but I know now, was being present at Jayda’s birth was one of the best trips I’ll ever take.
I don’t remember all the details from my Asia trip, but I remember every moment of Jayda’s birth. I remember seeing Jayda emerge into the world and do a froggy kick in the water. I remember the awe I felt at Janine’s beauty and strength. I remember the laughter when Janine asked for sushi an hour after giving birth. There’s no more intimate experience to share with someone. I’m forever grateful for being asked to stand by my friend’s side.
