The Prenatal Vow
by Dielle Ciesco ©2008  All Rights Reserved

There are many passages in life for which we have certain rituals.  Birth is ceremoniously celebrated with baptism, and there are birthdays, graduations, weddings, and funerals.  While these moments in life may indeed be worth noting, aren’t there other times just as noteworthy?  

For example, how many of us perform a ritual for the day we leave a dull, dead end job to enter the unknown world of our passion?  Has anyone ever marked the first gray hair with a wisdom ceremony? And how many people are there out there taking the time to wed themselves in a ceremony of self love, maybe even before they ever think of tying the knot with another?

When we do wed another, we make a vow, a promise.  Why has there never been a similar vow for parenting? 

Have you ever considered either alone or in partnership with your mate, writing a promise to your baby?  Will you be there for baby when she is a confused and frightened teenager?  Will you forgive him when he fails to live up to your unfair expectations?  Do you promise to be patient, compassionate, and approachable…in good times and in bad?  What are you willing to give and to sacrifice?  Think about it.  Let your quiet inner wisdom speak through you the words you really can promise.  

Then commit your vow to writing.  Read it aloud to your unborn child and listen for any messages of approval or physical stirrings that signify gratitude. Refer to it often to inspire yourself through the challenges throughout your child’s life.  And share it with your child when he or she is old enough to appreciate your promise.  Maybe he or she will even pass on the tradition to your grandchildren.