12/27/2023
Ruminating today, on this week of many birthdays, many celebrations, triumphs and sadness too ...... The Birth Place midwives had a Christmas Eve baby, Christmas Day (of course), my beloved Aunty Vonnie turned 88 yesterday on Boxing Day (Dec 26) and today would have been my late husband, James, 69th. My Mum transitioned in December of 2017, it's hard to believe it's been so long.
My midwifery school, Commonsense Childbirth School of Midwifery is about to graduate it's first cohort since accreditation in 2020, through every precarious turn our students have prevailed and will walk in March! Our alumni, since 2012, are still supporting communities, growing and changing the world. I hope the ancestors are well pleased!
So what I am present to today is LIFE, the complexities and yet the simplicity of the choices we make, and the chances we take. I realize that our paths are inextricably linked and there is no accident to any of it. I reflect today as I give thanks for those who chose to be or were chosen to be a part of my journey, I remain grateful for every.single.one - those who have come through, those still here and those yet to come. Every lesson learned has not been in vain, every blessing received has contributed to my growth.
I acknowledge the legacy of service I received from my parents and family, and in honor of the Shepherd line, today, I am proud to award two Fellowships to incoming midwifery students via the SHEPHERD FAMILY FELLOWSHIP FOR ASPIRING MIDWIVES in honor of Aunty Vonnie, Aunty Ruth and Cousin Marlene.
If I learned nothing else this year - just let go, and let God, for He clearly has a plan! Onward to 2024!!
