First, the dream

The dream falls in line with the one I imagine most other people have at some point in their lives: start a family, have a child. It seemed straightforward when we looked around and saw so many of our friends and family with children. We tried and tried, consulted experts, faced failures, and went through a lot of hardships. But when we saw our little girl, we felt suffused with a joy that I find hard to describe.

Within five minutes of arrival, a nurse placed Mattie in my arms. She weighed just over seven pounds, but I felt a weight holding her that I’d never before experienced. I was a father now, with all the responsibility that comes with the title. I trembled with excitement and fear. I wonder still if I have what it takes to do right by my daughter. I know I’ll do my best and try.