I Was There

She grasped my fingers so tightly
as she took slow deep breaths.
A feeling of inadequacy came over me,
while she endured the pain and stress.

I couldn't believe her fortitude
as my fingers turned ghostly white.
Her courage never faltered for a moment,
and she remained a beautiful sight.

During a respite she eased on my fingers,
as I wiped the beads from her brow.
Her eye watering smile said more in that instant
than could be spoken at any hour.

Once more she pressured my fingers,
as the ordeal quickly resumed.
Timing and breathing were now essential
with more movement from the womb.

The time was now perfect for the delivery,
as instructions were called to push.
Then stop… then push once again,
then a head with a hand, and swoosh.

What a remarkable, beautiful baby,
my feet weren't touching the ground.
Mother and baby were truly incredible,
and I was there for every sight and sound.

poem by Orlando Belo
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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