I am asked frequently asked why become a doula, birthing coach, or midwife; why work with mothers during such a sensitive time; why help raise children that aren't yours. Immediately, I recall a sharp memory of a conversation with my grandmother when I was a child. She asked me "How many children are you going to have?" I innocently replied "My stomach is going to be from here (pointing at my stomach) to the wall (pointing off to the wall across the room) of course she laughed and curiously asked "who gon' be the daddy"? I again innocently replied "We won't need one." Presently, I'm well aware that a partner, mate, or companion is highly needed before, during, and after birth. At that time, as I reflect on the conversation I feel I knew the importance of a sister being in the hands of another sister and how valuable that is to the entire family. A mother's care during this time is highlighted with peaceful moments when you have another woman beside you to guide you through such a spiritual moment as birthing (a rites of passage). As for raising children that aren't yours, I will now quote from the Kongo, Art of Babysitting regarding Community which represents family. Community: A never-ending process of growth, development, transformation and accountability. The well-being of the community depends on the health and wholeness, the successful maturation of the persons who constitute its membership (Father, Mother and Child). We the original models, teachers, representations, examples, figures, and so on... of working together; within a community, village, land, and so forth... must see how vital it is for all to be on one accord with the dynamics of Loving Self and Kind and working with the rest. Knowing thyself means embracing thyself as well and being comfortable in that image that is in the likeness of God and God's Essence.
Ase'
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