Part of me was afraid of what I would find and what I would do when I got there. I knew the risks, or imagined I knew. But the thing I felt the most, much stronger than fear, was the desire to confront him.  — Apocalypse Now

There are times when I have to do something that is unpleasant, but am eager to get it over with.  I don’t mean getting-your-shots unpleasant.  More like I’m-going-to-remember-this-forever unpleasant.  I guess we all do.  It’s usually something that’s going to change my life, but is really going to suck.  One of these things that had a good outcome was the birth of my children.  Yes, I knew all of the safety and advantages a woman has when she gives birth at a modern facility, but there’s still that experience of watching the woman I love writhe in pain, not to mention that there is still a pretty good risk of losing one or both of my most beloved people.  Yeah, I have no idea how painful and scary that was for the woman, but even if I’m along for the ride, it’s still scary and stressful.

But, like I used to get told a lot, that’s why I get paid the big bucks.  Most things that fall into this category are going to happen whether or not you’re ready, so it is best to be prepared for them.  Knowing everything I can beforehand, having an idea of what I will do before, during, and after the event, and keeping my head go a long way.

Still, chomping at the bit for something you know is going to suck because you just want it over with does seem strange, don’t you think?