in honor of a playful soul

so often in life, we have moments that wake us up. we realize the importance of connection and always being honest and loving towards others and ourselves.
for awhile now, i have chosen to practice gratitude. it keeps me in the space of openness and humbles me in ways that create true joy.
my daughter is one of the most amazing souls - not just because she is my daughter, but because she is truly grateful for all of life. she never judges her feelings or hides them. she sings out loud and dances bouyantly in the pizza parlor- she is grateful to just BE - be in all of the moments.
when she was born and incredible soul was there. my midwife was not only a big part of leelas first breathe of life, but a huge part of my stepping into motherhood. we talked many times about the gifts in "not knowing" and how magically humbling it is to be a mother. she shared her joy of the motherhood journey and also her sadness around certain moments in her life. she became a mentor in many ways, and also was a continual reminder that BIRTH happens in each moment.
i am writing this entry in celebration of her....for she passed on unexpectantly and i am deeply affected...and in gratitude for having the GIFT in knowing her- and for her to be in one who brought my daughter so beautifully in to this world.
in celebration of you, donna- thank you. thank you for how you reminded me to giggle, and embrace the newness of birth- thank you for holding my hand and encouraging me to deal with the pain- not run from it.
you are deeply in my heart....and in so many hearts- and i will continue to celebrate your PRESENCE in the world.....through my actions, my love of life and mothering and for the gift in re birthing- the end and the beginning.

in love, and deep respect to you....