We Are Born of Love: Love is Our Mother

Rumi’s words, “We are born of love; Love is our mother,” hold a profound truth about the very nature of birth and motherhood. This simple yet powerful quote reminds us that love is at the core of all life, and it is through the act of love that we are brought into the world. As we reflect on these words, we can explore what it means to be “born of love” and how that shapes not only our entry into the world but also the way we navigate life itself.

Love as the Beginning

From conception to birth, love is the foundation of the journey. Whether it’s the love between partners, the self-love a mother holds as she nurtures her growing child, or the broader, universal love that surrounds and supports the creation of life, love is always present. Even in challenging circumstances, where the road to parenthood might be complex or filled with obstacles, love is the guiding force that allows new life to flourish.

In birth, love takes on a physical form, as mothers give of themselves, offering their bodies as vessels for new life. The act of nurturing and growing a child is an expression of love, one that requires patience, sacrifice, and care. Mothers, in this sense, become the embodiment of love itself—offering unconditional support to their children, from the womb and far beyond.

The Role of Love in the Birth Experience

As doulas, midwives, and birth workers, we often see how love shapes the birthing experience. Birth is not just a physical act; it’s an emotional and spiritual one too. When a birthing person feels supported, held, and surrounded by love, the entire process transforms. The environment of birth becomes one where love is the driving force, making space for confidence, calm, and empowerment.

When we acknowledge that love is at the center of the birth experience, we also honor the deep connection between the birthing person and the baby. This connection starts in the womb and continues to grow after birth. Babies are born into an environment where they are immediately met with love—whether through skin-to-skin contact, the sound of their parents’ voices, or the tender touch of those around them. This early experience of love helps shape their sense of safety and belonging.

Motherhood as a Reflection of Love

Rumi’s words remind us that love doesn’t stop at birth—it continues through motherhood. Mothers are often the first source of unconditional love a child knows, offering warmth, comfort, and security. This love fosters growth, resilience, and the ability to navigate life’s challenges.

But Rumi’s quote also points to something greater—the idea that love itself is our mother. In this sense, it’s not just the biological act of mothering that shapes us, but the presence of love in all its forms. The love of a community, the love we show ourselves, and the love we give to others all serve as nurturing forces in our lives. We are continually born of love as we experience it throughout life’s many stages.

Being “born of love” means that love is our essence, and it is through love that we find our way in the world. As we move through life—whether as parents, children, or caregivers—love is the guiding force that shapes our experiences, connects us to one another, and reminds us of the beauty of life.

In birth work, we are privileged to witness the profound power of love firsthand. Every birth, every mother, and every child is a reflection of this truth: we are all born of love, and love is our greatest teacher. As we honor this, we create space for more love, more connection, and more healing in the world.