Do you like to drive? Whenever you get into the drivers seat, you are in control. Your hands are on the steering wheel. You determine the direction of the vehicle. You step on the accelerator, and drive faster. Or you can step on the breaks, and stop. The choice is up to you.

Have you ever sat in the passenger seat, and felt helpless as the driver took you on a bumpy ride? Perhaps they drive too fast or slow, werent courteous to the other drivers, or put you in a dangerous position. All you could do is sit there and pray for the ride to be over.

Your birth choice- either natural or under the influence puts you in the drivers seat or passenger seat. Where do you like to sit?

I like to be in the drivers seat. I turn the key, and start the engine. As I drive, my purpose and direction are clear. I know where Im going and am determined to get there. If I encounter roadblocks, obstacles or detours, Ill get back on track. I will be flexible, and adjust my approach. Whatever happens, Ill keep going until I reach my destination. Inside me is everything I need to accomplish my goal.

As Im driving down the road, my water breaks, marking the onset of labor. I am on the racetrack now. Physical sensations grow stronger and stronger. It is pain with a purpose. I am not afraid. If I grow it, I can birth it! I breathe in all that is wise and wonderful. I push with all my strength and courage. I do what my body intuitively tells me to do. I will speed up, slow down, pause or keep going. But my eye is on the finish line.

Of course, there is an alternative to being in the drivers seat. An epidural would make me numb from the waist down. That way, I wouldnt be able to drive. I wouldnt be able to feel the pedals and push them. Id be under the influence. Someone else would have to take the wheel. Relinquishing control might cause me to feel trapped or frustrated. Thats why I want to be an active participant in the birth process. Im in control of my vehicle, not other people or circumstances. I feel good about that.

Behind the wheel, I am squarely in control. Feelings of power, determination and happiness flow through me. I am at peace. I feel terrific about myself. As the babys head crowns, I cross the finish line. I am a champion! Yes, I won the race. My prize is a beautiful, healthy baby to love and bond with. Now that Ive captured the trophy, I will never be the same again. I am no longer an ordinary driver. Ive gone on an incredible journey, kept my wits, and won the grand prize. I am an extraordinary person. I am a mother, with a little passenger in the back seat. Baby, were going to fasten our seatbelts for the ride of our lives. Look out world, here we come!