Dear Husband, We Just Had a Baby

Dear Husband,

We just had a baby, and I’m kind of an emotional wreck.

But, you already knew that.

You, on the other hand, have been my rock. You have taken over rocking the baby in the wee hours of the night when my arms can’t take one more bounce. You have gotten up with the toddler who comes charging into our room at 5am. You have worked hard all day and then come home to help feed the baby, put the toddler to bed, and clean up the chaos from the day, all before spending the night helping me burp and change and rock some more. You’ve done all of this without a single complaint.

You are so strong. You don’t whine or stress like I do. And for that, I am so incredibly thankful. I am thankful for your resilience, your encouragement, and the voice of reason you speak into my life.

But I’m guessing that even though you don’t always voice it, this season has been hard for you too. I know that sometimes you don’t like to tell me how you’re feeling. You think you’re “protecting” me. And I know you would prefer to just deal with your feelings rather than to talk them to death like I do.

But, I want to talk about them. Because, I see you. Every once in a while, I catch a glimpse of the exhaustion and the worry in your eyes. And for once, I want to be your rock. I want to calm your fears, and quiet your worries, like you always do for me.

So, Dear Husband,

If you’re worried about providing, about making sure this baby and our family’s needs are cared for?

Stop. We already have everything we need. And we aren’t worried about the future. Not one bit. You are amazing, and we’re in this together.

Maybe you’re feeling disconnected and you’re wondering if you will ever feel the same strong bond that you think the baby and I already share?

You will. I promise. In no time I’ll be complaining about how it feels like the baby loves you more than me.

Maybe you’re unsure how to help me in this season? Maybe you don’t know the right things to say, the right things to do, or where exactly you’re going to fit into my life now that I have this child to look after?

I’ll tell you. You’re my #1. Always. Forever. The end. (But just in case my actions don’t show it for the next couple months, use this.)

Maybe you’re worried about whether or not you’ll be a good dad to this child?

Newsflash. I wouldn’t have married you if I didn’t already know you’d be the very best. And you are. Yes, already.

Or maybe I’m way off. Maybe you’re not worried about any of these things. Maybe it’s something else completely. But whatever it is that keeps you up at night (aside from the the baby’s cries), I want you to know this:

You are the best husband. You are the most amazing dad.

You, my love, are our hero.