Why I'm planning a home birth

In my attempt to experience my own pregnancy as a mother rather than a midwife, a lot of my already deeply held beliefs about birth have become more real and tangible to me. Of course it was a given that I would have this baby at home, but my reason for supporting home birth has become much more personal now that I've chosen it for myself and my baby.

First, I'd like to say that I think a lot of families who choose home birth live in a different place, mentally and spiritually, from more mainstream families. I don't mean a place of denial or ignorance, I mean a place where the world and our place in it is viewed differently. I don't think we live in a superior place, though I have trouble describing it in a way that doesn't come off as sounding superior. I, personally, feel more connected to the universe than what I observe in most people. I think this stems from my Unitarian beliefs, especially our Seventh Principle, "Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part". It is also my observation that I care much more deeply for the inherent worth and dignity of every person and practicing justice, equity, and compassion in human relations, which happen to be our First and Second Principles.


All three of these guiding principles are reflected in my belief in home birth. I am reminded of a conversation I once had with my minister. During a time of personal crisis I confided in her that despite my calling to be involved in the miracle of birth, I did not recall ever feeling the spiritual high I imagined would be inherent in being the first person to touch a brand new human being. She asked me why, then, did I do it? Without hesitation I replied that despite the visceral gut feeling I was missing, I believed firmly in the empowerment of women through their birth experience, the sacredness of the birth event, and the importance of that experience in the cycle of the family. To that the minister replied, "Through your work you are living the principle of upholding the inherent worth and dignity of the women, babies, and families you serve, and you work is your spiritual practice". I will never forget that moment, as it was a hallmark in my development as a human and reinforced my sense of purpose and belonging in the universe.

I live deeply connected to the interdependent web of existence, and for this reason I am more attuned to the workings of my body and the natural processes of birth and death. I know that for most women having a baby at home with a skilled midwife is at least as safe as hospital birth, but even if it weren't I'm not sure it would sway my decision to birth my baby, as I live my life, in tune with nature. Despite all evidence to the contrary, many people do not believe that home birth is safe, yet no one tells the Amish that they are being selfish, ignorant, and putting their babies at risk. Why can I not be afforded the same respect?

Music City Community Chorus announces June 5 Concert

Music City Community Chorus Announces June 5 Concert
American Choral Classics: Billings to Bernstein

May 12, 2008 (NASHVILLE) - The Music City Community Chorus presents American Choral Classics: Billings to Bernstein a free concert of chorus music by William Billings, Randall Thompson and Leonard Bernstein on Thursday evening, June 5 at 7:30 pm at the Cathedral of the Incarnation, 2015 West End Avenue in Nashville Tennessee.

For this current season’s Music City Community Chorus outing, conductor Renee Grant-Williams has chosen to present Modern Music and David’s Lamentation by William Billings, followed by Randall Thompson’s The Peaceable Kingdom and Alleluia. The evening will round off with the Chichester Psalms by Leonard Bernstein accompanied by the Excelsior Instrumental Ensemble. World-renowned bassist, Dave Pomeroy, will make a guest appearance.

“Our diverse group of singers is rapidly developing into an ensemble that has its own identity and sound,” says Grant-Williams. “This chorus provides an opportunity for a wide range of singers to experience classical music, to learn new skills, and to grow vocally.” The sixty-voice chorus is under the umbrella of the Metro Nashville Community Education program.

American Choral Classics: Billings to Bernstein is free to the public. The concert begins promptly at 7:30 pm on Thursday, June 5, 2008 at the Cathedral of the Incarnation, 2015 West End Avenue in Nashville Tennessee. Call 615/244-3280 for interviews or additional information. Auditions for the Fall season will begin in August. www.MusicCityCommunityChorus.org