ReflectionsWhat is advanced or essential midwifery knowledge may depend on who your authority is. Know to be humble, realizing we are a part of a miracle, but not allowing ourselves to believe by action or thought that we are the miracle maker. Know our place, much like the birthing woman: here, but not here. We may guide our clients to be the final decision makers, being artfully appropriate and bringing a gentle balance. Know how to facilitate empowerment by guidance and example. We need to exemplify faith, freedom, discretion, credibility and integrity, being careful with our own spirituality. Who we are is imparted. Strive for excellence; it shows. Know we teach by living example, not just words. And most of all, know to love, unconditionally, without judgment. You can know the answers, get straight As in all your midwifery classes, know the right clinical maneuvers, details of a woman's history, community protocol, and on and on. But what is this to anyone without the warmth and love you give or the spirit you carry, helping women experience within themselves the transformation this rite of passage can give? It's such a holy time, unique unto itself! � Carol Gautschi, Midwifery Today Issue 69 |
