Sit still!

  How often have you heard a parent say to a child:  Sit still! 

  We reprimand children for fidgeting, for constantly being in motion, for running around the room rather than sitting quietly.  We wonder why they can't act like grown ups, forgetting that they have a way to go before they actually grow up.

  And yet, Rachel wonders with awe at every new sensation in her stomach--is that the baby?  is that a kick? 

  The baby is in full motion, swinging arms and feet wildly, as though it were a baby bird trying to claw its way out of the egg.  (thankfully, the womb is a bit sturdier than an egg.)  She waits, eagerly, for the first definite sensation of movement.

  I have no doubt that we will, at some point, urge this child to sit still.  But for now, we wait eagerly for the first movements, filled with awe at the process of growth.