This International Women’s Day, I’m pausing to thank the women in my life.
Thank you to my mother, and to those who have mothered me. Thank you to the women who have treated me like sisters. And to all those who have trusted me for mentorship and guidance, thank you for allowing me to play that role in your life.
Most everything good in my life, I can trace back to to the support or influence of a fellow woman.
I grew up in a family of women who loved and uplifted one another. And as an only child, I’ve always sought out BFFs and close sister friends. I’m at home in communities of other women, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
My whole life is a testament to the power of feminine energy.
Since women have taught me my most important lessons, when better than International Women’s Day, to share them with you?
From other women, I’ve learned that strength sometimes means making myself vulnerable, and it always comes from authenticity.
I’ve learned the importance of generosity and extending kindness to one another.
Women have shown me how to define myself for myself. Including expanding my definition of women when I learned what it meant to be transgender. And women have been gentler than I deserved when I didn’t always understand.
Women have taught me that sometimes, if the rules are unfair, you should break them. That anger can be useful, and cussing is sometimes most appropriate. And that it’s okay to rock the boat once and awhile for a good cause.
And thankfully, women have shown me the importance of supporting one another. Of withholding judgement, of grace and of forgiveness, whether for others, or ourselves.
For me, doula work is an extension of this community, and a way to pay it forward.
I have the opportunity to see women’s strength and vulnerability has they give birth.
I witness the generosity of labor and delivery staff and nurses. And I remind clients to give themselves grace as new parents, and forgive themselves for not being perfect.
I watch families define what their new life will look like, and break whatever rules have been set by the mommy wars and fight for their own best cause- themselves.
So I have women to thank for my career as well. And I have so much gratitude for the families that allow me into their lives.
