감사합니다. Thank You.

Twenty five years ago today, I went to St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ypsilanti, Michigan. My obstetrician wanted to induce the birth of my child, and since I was 9 days overdue, I was down for that.

We settled into the room and my doctor examined me. His assisting nurse started the Pitocin drip and he broke my water. The doc then said to my husband Steve and I, "This will take a while. I'm going to lunch but I'll check back in an hour or so."

It wasn't 20 minutes later when my daughter decided she was ready to greet the world. Steve ran into the hallway and started calling for help. I remember that frightening moment when I was all alone - and pushing! - and the next moment, when I was surrounded by a crowd of students and nurses.

My quick and easy labor seemed finished before it started, and I was suddenly holding Christina Audrey, a delicate and beautiful babe, in my arms.

I'm not sure who caught Christina, though I do remember it was a student. I don't know the name of the woman who cleaned her and swaddled her. I don't remember the face of the nurse who monitored my condition. But they were there. And I was so dependent upon them, so thankful for them.

Today Christina Audrey is expecting the arrival of her first child. She will soon know those feelings - the physical duress of labor and delivery - the mystery and miracle of life - and the profound gratitude for each and every one who assists you on that day. She will deliver in a South Korean hospital, so I am practicing the Korean phrase that I will need most while I am by her side: Kam-sahm-nida. Thank You.