This week, in my home state of South Australia, an important piece of pro-life legislation sadly failed to pass by just one vote.

The bill would have ensured that in situations where a mother was looking to end her pregnancy in the third trimester (28 weeks or later), her baby would be born alive and made available for adoption instead of being given a lethal injection and delivered stillborn.

Coincidentally, my wife Angie is now 28 weeks along in her pregnancy. As we discuss names and furnish the nursery, it is impossible for me to think of this precious little life as something unwanted or disposable.

While I believe a baby has incalculable worth from the moment of conception, there is something about the third trimester especially that makes you feel closer than ever to your long-expected baby.

Maybe it’s the ultrasound scans of their hands and face, or the toys and clothes awaiting them in their new room, or the excited chit-chat at family events.

Most of all — for us at least — it’s the conversations we’re having with Squish about her soon-to-arrive sibling.

Just before I sat down to write this article, I walked in on Elsa (Squish) sitting in Angie’s lap, greeting “baby” with cuddles and kisses all over my wife’s bulging belly.

For Squish in particular, the arrival of number two will be a game-changer. Here are three things she has to look forward to — three things that will change her life for the better.

A Playmate for Squish

I have three sisters. We grew up on a farm playing chasey or tag in the corn patch, building cubby houses by the creek, and playing under the sprinklers in the hot summer. Our childhood was filled with amazing memories. Still to this day, my sisters are among my closest friends.

I can’t wait to give Squish her own little best friend and companion for life. In the early years, no doubt, the baby will be more of a novelty or even a prop for her imaginary play, but in time, Elsa will have a wonderful playmate with whom to pass the days and explore the world.

And as they grow older, sharing experiences and memories, celebrating holidays and milestones, they will provide each other with a sense of belonging, support and lifelong friendship. At least, that is what we will be aiming toward as their parents!

A Reality Check for Squish

Elsa knows how to say her own name. She’s been doing this since at least six months of age. And she says it a lot!

Whether or not this is evidence of an inflated ego, as the first child, she has certainly been the centre of her parents’ attention.

In a few months, all of that will change, when our attention will be split between her and the new bubs, presenting Squish with a sobering reality check.

I have heard about some of the challenges this can present for the oldest child, and I am bracing for those challenges. However, in the long run, there are many benefits for Squish. She will learn disciplines like humility, patience, cooperation, sharing and conflict resolution. She will navigate new situations where she is not the sole focus. She will learn how to put the needs of someone else before her own.

I don’t expect these changes to take place suddenly. Fortunately, we’ve all got many years to work on them together.

A Learning Curve for Squish

The crucible of learning that lies ahead for Squish won’t all be about levelling her ego. There are many wonderful things besides that she will learn.

She will learn through teaching — growing in her own understanding and her ability to communicate as she teaches new concepts to her younger sibling.

She will gain new perspectives on the world — learning to take an interest in the emerging hobbies, passions and ideas of her younger apprentice.

She will gain experience as a leader — taking on new responsibilities and growing in confidence and maturity.

What a journey that lies ahead for little Squish!

I can’t wait to be with her every step of the way.

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Image courtesy of Pexels.