I believe...
I believe that birth is not primarily a medical event; it is a normal physiologic event that most women will experience at least once in their lifetimes. Women have been giving birth for thousands of years before the medical system as we know it was developed and began to dominate the spheres previously occupied by wise older women in the birthing woman's community. I believe, therefore, that it can still be experienced as a non-medical event.
I believe that birth is for families. Though women are the ones most birth work is aimed at, we mustn't forget dads, nor older siblings. What happens in pregnancy, birth, and postpartum has lasting implications for the family unit and deserves compassionate support.
I believe that stories matter, and birth stories especially. Stories are narratives that give meaning to our experiences and a sense of identity to our babies. These stories should be told in words and in photographs.
I believe that just as much as birth as an intricate and exquisitely designed physiological process it is a spiritual and emotional process, too. A good birth attendant will know how to facilitate and make room for all of those layers of process to safely and freely unfold. Sometimes (often!) this means she will stay out of your way!
I believe that birth is a bridge that others can walk to the edge of with you, but you ultimately cross it alone. I believe that every woman who is ready will be best served by acknowledging that reality and choosing to own the full responsibility for her own pregnancy and birth. It is in doing so that she grows in intuition, courage, and love - qualities that she will need as a mother to her children and as a woman in the world for the rest of her life.
Taking responsibility for your own birth doesn't mean being alone, however. I believe that we all benefit from an older sister to walk with us through those transitional times of immense vulnerability with all the invitations to growth and transformation inherent within them. When a woman enters into the mysteries of the childbearing year, she can't come out the other side unchanged. But plunging those depths can be overwhelming and even scary at times. This is where a companion for the journey comes in.
I aim to be a witness, a wisdom-sharer, a space-holder, a storyteller, and fearless support person for families in their childbearing year. I cannot do the work for you, sister, but I will walk with you.
Being with women in pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum is a clear calling on my life, albeit one that I was slow to see. I'm yet in the process of clarifying and gaining equipping for the exact nature of my unique place in supporting birthing families. But even while I'm in process, I know I can -- and want to -- serve families in the capacities I already own.
I am not a midwife. I'm not even certified as a doula. Birth Keeper is the title I like best. Nevertheless, I have a varied assortment of skills, experiences, and credentials, which -- when piled together, dedicated to God, and offered up to birthing women -- make me a valuable sister to link arms with.
Would you like to walk together?
