They peer through the window at the lonely streets. The traffic is light, neighbors are staying in. Home has become a shelter, a refuge.
The halls of the hospital where they gave birth only one week ago were quiet; no visitors allowed. Only one person could accompany Mama in the delivery room. Naturally, Dad was chosen to witness the beautiful moment of joy. Her birth story will go down in history.
History will tell the tale of all of our days in quarantine.
History may not remember it well, it doesn’t always remember it like it was.
So we must tell its story.
The cars stayed parked in the garage.
The schools closed.
The children stayed home.
All of the nations held their breath as we watched the virus spread.
It united us in this way.
It threatened the most vulnerable among us.
In isolation, we protected our old and our weak as if we were those who were asked to stay home from war, yet given an essential assignment.
The world depended upon us.
We mourned with those who had loved ones dying.
We watched as doctors, nurses, and others demonstrated bravery and selflessness to serve others.
We wept with dying Italy, and listened to their song as they opened their windows and sang, filling their streets, united with one voice.
We were comforted by Europe, drawing rainbows on their windows, a sign that the storm will pass.
The littlest joys of life didn’t cease, even though there was uncertainty.
Parents hugged their children more.
Families played games and sang together while they stayed home.
Husbands danced with their wives in their living rooms.
Teachers lined up in cars, driving in neighborhoods to show their care and concern for the students they missed.
The people were present.
They loved.
They healed.
The light dawned at its appointed time.
They emerged from darkness stronger than before.
This session was proudly executed safely, with a minimum distance of six feet at all times. I remained outside for every single shot, on both the front lawn, and the patio of the master bedroom with the French doors open to the morning air. We utilized FaceTime prior to the session to discuss every detail in advance, minimizing the need for contact.
I’m grieved that his family’s in home newborn session has to be postponed until our government officials give us the all clear. At that time, I will return and be invited indoors when life goes back to normal. That is our prayer. It is a heartbreaking reality that we are giving up so much for the benefit of each other. But it is here we learn what it is to be untied for one cause. It is here we find beauty in the sacrifice. It is here we find what it means to truly love one another.
Prayers for all of those who are struggling in many different ways right now. May hope fill your hearts. Please join me in celebrating new life with this precious family. I hope it serves to lift your spirits. It does mine.
-Jamie
