I've learned there is nothing that can make you look at life more differently than having the experience of watching a baby being bom into this world. On May 14, 1997 that is exactly what I did. While sitting with my friend before the actual birth we were wondering what the baby would look like, how big he would be, and when he would finally be here. The anticipation was just too much. When the contractions got stronger, so did our excitement.
I don't think I have ever witnessed a more powerful, emotional experience all at one time. I could see how much pain my friend was in, but how strong she was being because she knew she had to be. She was bringing another life into this world: a part of her and a new beginning. It was all worth it once the baby could be seen. There was a look of peacefulness on the new mother's face. I could do nothing but look at her with admiration, and, of course, shed some tears at this beautiful sight.
Words cannot fully describe how I felt at that moment, or during the whole experience watching Paul Joseph being born. It will always be a time in my life that I can remember and reflect on, that showed me how precious life really is.