Having a baby in UAE: A letter to my daughter

Dearest Harper,

Looking back on my life, I really cannot remember the last time I cried.

Sure there have been a few times here and there: a sad funeral, a triumphant ending to a dramatic movie or when the New York Giants blow a six-point lead with less than two minutes to go. But all those examples registered slight emotional reactions, in the grand scheme of things.

When I was there to watch your global debut on September 5, 2015 and when I heard you crying before I could even see you, it changed me forever. In a very astonishing way.

You always hear about how men claim that the day their children were born was the best day of their lives. Rather cliche, I know. But for me, I can now relate.

Trust me, I will never forget that moment. For the rest of my days, there will always be an obvious reason for celebration on September 5th.

Because that is when my second life began. My life with Harper.

I never knew I could love something so much. I just never knew I had it in me. You have been alive for only two weeks but your impact on me has already been immeasurable.

But like I said before, when I heard you cry for the very first time, I immediately started to cry. Uncontrollably. Indeed, it was a very beautiful moment. So much so that -- according to my sources -- the other nurses in the room started to weep when they saw me get emotional.

It was proof that everything was now different and nothing would ever be the same. Ever. And because that was so obvious to me at that exact moment, I was very:

- excited
- happy
- overwhelmed
- optimistic
- proud

And when I experience all those emotions at one time -- trust me, it does not happen often -- my heart starts to swell and the waterworks come down. I'll admit it: only you and your amazing mother have that kind of effect on me.

So now that we have established your father will forever be completely wrapped around your finger, allow me to offer some concrete reassurance that will last for a lifetime. Harper, I will always be by your side. For good or ill, and even after my clock runs out, know this: your dad loves you.

And perhaps down the line, when you are old enough, you will read this. Then we can talk and reflect on that special day we shared together. After all, having children is a beautiful thing and it should be celebrated.

These are precious moments right now. I know this and sincerely appreciate it. But eventually you will begin to walk and begin to talk and then, you will grow up to become one of the most delightful people I have ever known.

I look forward to those days as I look forward to our life together. Now if you will, please excuse me while I wipe the tears off my keyboard.

With all my love,
Dad

For any expecting parents in or around the UAE: If you have any direct questions about what it was like to give birth in Abu Dhabi, the different hospital options, doctors, the access to drugs, birth certificate shenanigans, etc. please send me an email (aarongray2337@gmail.com) and I will respond promptly. Trust me, we know what it's like to not get straight-forward answers from trained professionals here. All I can do is tell you exactly how our situation played out and offer my wholehearted advice. Cheers.