Yet, when all is said and done,
there was something about that young mother,
trusting, calm, confident for a first timer.
And the baby, so bold, aware  already....

Why, I do believe the child is smiling,
looking right over here, bless my soul, at me.
Get out of my way, sheep,
while I kneel a moment, rest my weary legs
before I leave, and view this newest infant
that my red, old hand has slapped
from death to free and gasping life
this odd and almost holy night.
 

    From The Midwife of Bethlehem J. Barrie Shepherd