Why did I not know that birth is the pinnacle where women discover the courage to become mothers?

My heart is a ladle of sweet water brimming over.

There's nothing quite like a real . . . train conductor to add color to a quotidian commute

I could not get my fill of looking. There should be a song for women to sing at this moment or a prayer to recite. But perhaps there is none because there are no words strong enough to name that moment.

One of my great secrets was knowing I had the power to make her smile.

I wanted to cry, but I realized that I was too old for that. I would be a woman soon and I would have to learn how to live with a divided heart.

I am so honored to be the vessel into which you pour this story of pain and strength.