(photo credit: birthwithoutfearblog.com)

It seems impossible for it to have been a whole year ago that I decided to make what I love to do into what I do to feed my family. Having been a DONA trained birth doula has been exciting, eye opening, and truly a privilege. My own births have given me so much confidence, an appreciation for the human body, a glimpse of life through the eyes of my own mother, and a deeper understanding of love. We all hear these sentiments spoken by parents.

What I hadn’t known going in was what it would do for my life and perspective to be a birth doula. To be a part of the support team of other mothers has enriched my life in and understanding of what it means to be a part of something so much bigger than yourself that honestly, has nothing to do with yourself. To witness empowerment, to feel the spiritual gift, the deep connection, the undying bond of parent and child; there is nothing to compare it.

For everyone who has been on this journey with me, thank you. For every mom who has called me to look for advice, I love your confidence in me, and I love you. For every baby born while I helped your parents through some tough moments, I’m honored to be a part of your story. For everyone who is to come into my office in the future, thank you for the privilege you’ve given me by considering me to be a part of your support system.