Celebrating births

                                                                                                 

No, not that one. 

It's December, and it would be a safe bet that I am referring to Jesus' birth. But I'm not, not directly that is. Here are some thoughts about babies. 

database.earth estimates that around 132,399,173 babies were born worldwide. That's a lot of Lamaze classes, baby showers, perhaps a few gender reveal parties (are people still doing those?), and registry on Thebump.com.  

Well, maybe those with access to healthcare, support from friends and family, and paid paternity and maternity leave. 

What about the millions of women and those people supporting them without means? 

This may be where I mention that one birth about 2000 years ago. 

Sing the songs, light the candles, pass the peace. 

Celebrate the birth of one who sought to bring peace.

Here is the challenge: now write your senators and congresspeople so that all people raising their families can love their children in health and peace. 

The following are some of the current federal and state legislation aimed at supporting women and babies:

Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Women and Families Act.https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/6918

Newborns Essential Support Toolkit (NEST) Act.https://amchp.org/mch-bill-tracker/
Momnibus Act.https://barragan.house.gov/2025/12/19/press-release-rep-barragan-joins-reps-letlow-schrier-to-introduce-bipartisan-maternal-support-bill/

Further Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024.https://ccf.georgetown.edu/2025/05/22/state-momentum-for-maternal-health-legislation-continues-congressional-cuts-would-turn-back-the-clock/

These are some of the legislative efforts committed to improving maternal and infant health outcomes. 

As we celebrate this one birth today, let's ensure safe, 

healthy births for all children for the rest of the year.

May these days widen your heart to hold all of the earth's children.