I sat in her darkened nursery this afternoon, rocking my sleeping baby, awash in a love so deep it hurt.

I prayed a new prayer. I told God that I was opening myself up to whatever her future holds.

I have always chosen optimism, but today, maybe for the first time, I could throw my arms wide to the unknown. I realized, in the rhythm of the rocking chair and her steady breathing, that being this child’s mother is worth it. Whatever it is, whatever may come, it is worth it. I am hers and she is mine, and that joy is bigger than any fear for the future. I suppose I’ve known that for a long time, but I felt it in a new way today.

In this season of gratitude, I know for certain that I am incredibly blessed.