My first experience of a Midwife took the form of an older gentleman who lived in my neighborhood in the tiny town of Wingham, Ontario - Mr. Applebee was his name. One day I was out in the hood, walking my caterpillar collection (quart sealers with tiny fork holes in the lid so they could breath). I was 5 by the way so I thought caterpillars were "pets" who needed care. Mr. Applebee came outside to the road to say hi. He had been working in his garden in the front yard. This was the only town I ever lived in where gardens were typically in the front of the house. I told him I was trying to keep the caterpillars away from my Mom because she thought I should let them all go. Suddenly, I was stung by a bee and began to howl.
Mr. Applebee ever so quietly went to his garden and wet some dirt. He gently placed a mud pack on my sting and I felt immediate relief. Somehow he got the stinger out and I continued on my way, happy as a clam. There was a feeling of safety that came with the way he immediately moved on with me. He told me the physics of why it worked because I asked the question. Mr. Applebee allowed me to stand in my power and feel strong and happy. He didn't need me to rave on about how wonderful he was or go to a place of weakness. It was okay when I needed him and it was okay when I didn't.
Did this make him a midwife? Maybe not but there was something very healing and gentle about him. I want to be that kind of Midwife ~ One who you just feel safe with, quiet and attentive and only doing what is needed when needed.
