My first birth...almost

Today I got to see an amazing woman in labor. She so gracefully agreed to allow me there to do my best attempt at supporting her. I think it changed my life. It was her third baby, born without an epidural. She endured contractions strenghtened by Pitocin, which I'm sure were far stronger than anything natural. Unfortunately I stepped out to get food really quick, and missed the actual birth in the 40 minutes or so that I was gone. I returned to find a momma nursing her new baby. A baby so very alert and aware of the outside world, getting the chance to see it without a drug altered beginning. It was absolutely Beautiful!!! She gave me strength, and I thank her for that.