Finally

The night before you were born,
we lay awake, unspoken anxiety
like a blaring alarm clock.
Items checked from lists before they reached
my full consciousness, my mind racing,
trapped in limbo by what was impending.
Forty weeks felt like a lifetime and yet,
and yet, the questions raised themselves.

The dawn of the day you were born
crept through the blinds,
pierced our awareness as we sat over a game,
attempting to focus on something
I could control,
trying not to watch the dips and peaks
monitoring your tolerance.
Knowledge is a heavy burden and fear
tempers it not.
Prayer is easier when you know the outcome.

The moment you were born,
your father's tears stood bright.
Relief and fierce,
fierce joy flooded my heart
as you screamed your displeasure
when cold, light, sound were foisted upon you
in this unfamiliar openness.
You are no stranger, though, not here,
not when hearts strain toward your existence,
not when love stretches to hold you.
Welcome, little one, welcome to the world.

We've been waiting