It is staggering to think of how helpless we are when we come into this world, relying completely on the love and support of others to survive. As we grow up and become stronger and more independent we convince ourselves that we’re not as helpless as babies but it’s not always true.
The bond of intimacy between parent and child is surpassed only by those between lovers or the closest of friends. Becoming a parent is one of the most challenging and joyful experiences life has to offer.
I wouldn’t go back to my childhood, or my son’s, even if I could (as sweet as they both were), because of all the hard-earned knowledge I’d have to re-learn, but I feel the tug of vicarious pleasure when I see a dad pushing a stroller or a mom tying her toddler’s shoe. In a complicated, stressful world like ours it is easy to forget everything we learned as children. The innocence, the purity, and the unspoiled wonder of a baby’s heart are constant reminders of life’s most important lessons.
In 1968, Brazilian artist Caetano Veloso wrote a song called “Baby” and recorded it with Gal Costa. Three years later, Os Mutantes recorded this version of it in English. It’s not about the whole baby thing but it’s called “Baby” and is worth a listen.
You know, you must take a look at the new land
The swimming pool and
The teeth of your friend
The dirt in my hand
You know, you must take a look at me
Baby, baby, I know that’s the way
Baby, baby, I know that’s the way
You know, you must try the new ice cream flavor
Do me a favor,
Look at me closer
Join us and go far
And hear the new sound of my Bossa Nova
Baby, baby, it’s been a long time
Baby, baby, it’s been a long time
You know, it’s time now to learn Portuguese
It’s time now to learn what I know
And what I don’t know
And what I don’t know
And what I don’t know
I know, with me everything is fine
It’s time now to make up your mind
We live in the biggest city of South America
Of South America, of South America
Look here, read what I wrote on my shirt
Baby, baby, I love you
Baby, baby, I love you
Baby, baby, I love you
Baby, baby, I love you
Baby, baby, I love you
You do
Words & Music by Mike Power 