Natural childbirth is the ultimate act of empowerment. To accept this challenge, I must swim against the tide. Multitudes of expectant mothers chose to be numb from the waist down. I chose to be calm and relaxed. Others rely on doctors to rid themselves of the baby, as if its a disease. I quietly draw from an inner strength. I breathe in all that is wise and wonderful. After all. Relaxation is the key to the total dilation of the uterus. As I relax, I awaken a giant within me. That giant has been sleeping for years. I awaken the giant, as it is now my destiny... to be a mother.

Natural childbirth is not for wimps, sissies or cowards. It is for mothers! To accomplish this act of bravery, I make three decisions:

(1) I can do it! Yes, there will be moments of pain. I will interpret this as pain with a purpose. I can do it, because Im looking ahead to my reward. My temporary discomfort will result in tremendous pleasure: a healthy, newborn to love and bond with. My newborn will have every possible opportunity to be healthy. I want to be an active participant in the birth process. I want to feel what childbirth feels like. Becoming a mother is a sacred rite of passage. I can do it. My baby is worth the time and effort. Im worth it. I will enjoy the birth process.

(2) I must do it! I have no desire to be numb from the waist down. I want to push the baby out, using all of my strength and courage. I dont want doctors prying the baby out with forceps or a vacuum. I am totally committed to natural childbirth. Dont even mention an epidural.. unless my babys life is on the line.

(3) I will do it! Inside of me is everything that I need to accomplish my goal. I will do what comes naturally, and I am not afraid. I expect life to give me what is best for me. I am in the right place, at the right time.

Affirming my three decisions, baby, Ive got leverage! If I grow it, I can birth it! Im stepping into the ring with my boxing gloves on. Bring on those contractions! My baby is ripe and ready, and this mother is rearing to go. Look out world, here comes my baby!