The birth of a baby is indeed a blessing. One should consider what goes on even Before birth and beyond. Make sure that Love bonds the family together. It entails exposure to various EXCRETA or bodily discharges from the mouth, eyes, skin and the bottom that needs to be taken care of. It requires doing SCREENING methods to ensure that the baby will be spared from possible complications like mental retardation and even death. Assess the presence of SEPSIS and other diseases for early detection and better outcome and recovery. Give the proper IMMUNIZATION and other prophylaxis to protect the child against preventable ailments. NOURISH the baby with the right food and what is best for him or her. Remember that every child is a gift from God, a product of His Amazing GRACE.
Although babies can’t speak, it doesn’t mean they don’t have the right to be heard. Let us be their voice so the world will know that this human being should be protected, nurtured and be allowed to grow. Because every person has been created in the image and likeness of God, His or her life has a purpose.
Choose to be a responsible parent. Be healthy in mind, body, soul and spirit so that you will be good stewards of God’s creation, your new baby.
Pray this prayer with me…
Prayer for New Parents
Almighty God, Father of all nations
Thank You for this gift
And for this great blessing
Of a child I hold dear.
Make me a good steward
Of this lovely creature,
Whose every smile
Brightens my day.
As I gaze in the eyes of this little one
May I look upon the welfare,
Of every newborn in my family
With unconditional love.
Just like St. Joseph and Mama Mary,
They took care of Baby Jesus
Who was born in a manger,
To bring light and peace to the world. AMEN.
Excerpt from "Your Newborn Is a Blessing! (A Guide to Your Baby's Health from Conception to Birth)"
Illustration by Liz Jocano.