Giving Comfort

Do they still do Lamaze classes?  Is that still a viable alternative to an epidural?  There was a time period in Homer that I was a Lamaze coach for 3 times or wait, was it 4?  I think it was four.  I went to the classes with the Mother-to-be and learned all the assorted breathing styles. The hee-hee and whoo-whoo, in addition to the dog-like pant-pant,   We selected music she'd like to listen to.  Selected a picture to bring along with us, for her focal point.  Packed all the stuff, practiced all the breathing- with the single purpose in mind- to ease her pain as she brought this brand spanking new little baby into the world.  

My main purpose was to offer hope, calmness, guidance and most of all to give her as much comfort as possible.  To ease the way for her in any way I could.  Friends and family would drop by or call to see how things were progressing.  Eventually, with a lot of effort on her part and pain in spite of my best attempts, she would release that baby and we'd all celebrate!  A joyous time of celebration!


Leaving this life is just as much a struggle as the entry.  Many of the same events as that birthing process transpires.  Trained people knowing what they are doing and what needs to be done.  All trying to ease the pain and provide comfort and sustenance to the best of their ability.  Friends and family dropping by to see how things are going.  The focus in this scene is the Savior, the teachings of the Gospel that offer hope, and our testimonies.  Love is in abundance.


There is such a desire to help in the midst of helplessness.  Sunday, his only son-in-law gave a blessing to Lee.  Monday, his oldest son gave him a blessing along with the Stake Patriarch, who is a long time friend.  

Tuesday, was so tender to me.  3 friends, at separate times came to see him, and individually, each gave him the greatest gift they could.  Using the Priesthood they have- each gave their friend, their brother in the Gospel, a blessing of comfort. 


I thought of the people in the Book of Mormon, at the waters of Mormon, when Alma said-

...as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, 

and to be called his people, 

and are willing to bear one another's burdens, 

that they may be light;

Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; 

yea and comfort those that stand in need of comfort...  

                                                                          Mosiah 18:8-11