Oh, I love how she talks to us!
She’s been all about the coos and sighs since week 6 or 7, so I’ve grown accustomed to her constant conversation. A med student friend was marveling over all her noises recently. On her peds rotation, she cared for an infant who had been neglected, and her attending had been concerned over how quiet the child was as a result. It didn’t strike my friend as so odd until she observed Ari in comparison.
Despite words of wisdom from books and other parents, as a new parent, it’s hard not to feel like you’re neglecting your young as you hear her wailing on the other side of the curtain while squeezing in a quick shower. The pleasure she seems to derive from our constant dialogue is the greatest assurance that we are, in fact, doing okay by her. The thought of the alternative breaks my heart.
anna in med school 
Hi Anna,
You’re such a natural mom! Your baby is so lucky to be with you, she will be a wonderful person due to the loving care you give her.
Hi John! That’s so sweet of you to say, coming from a loving parent with great children. Thank you!
the tragedy of neglected children is so heartbreaking! Ari, on the other hand, is so lucky to be surrounded by so much love.
Thank you, Eric! xoxoxo
Children can change one’s life so drastically. I’m very happy that Ari is changing yours the way she is. You know this, but you might not have thought about it, so here it is—your heart has grown larger. Your love for Ari makes you love and feel for all children. Even the exhaustion and frenzy helps you to understand your future patients better. Just think about this and you’ll be able to see some more of the ramifications.
And then there’s the alternative. If one doesn’t welcome children and doesn’t make a conscious decision to love them—because love can be a conscious decision—one won’t be able to convince your children that you love them. Such a person’s thoughts will make themselves known even without being expressed in words. She won’t feel the compassion for all children that you do. The ripple effect is pretty astounding.
When the Bible talks about sins being manifested to the seventh generation (or something like that), I used to think it was hyperbole used as a teaching device. But a parent’s love or lack thereof can truly affect future generations.
Too heavy? Here, try this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JmA2ClUvUY
Hi Anna, just found your blog after reading your NYT essay. I really enjoyed both! My husband just finished residency last year and we also had our first child, so I can relate well to aspects of your life. I’ve spent a decent amount of time in Philly, too, as my sister lives there. Anyway, I appreciate your quick posts on a variety of topics, and your perspective which seems quite balanced (always a plus in my opinion!). Keep up the good work, and hang in there with pursuing your medical career!