top of page

On Being a Tour Guide


hiking.jpg

I was born with a freakishly great sense of direction. My husband doesn't bother trying to read maps, or plan out a route to a meeting. He just consults with me, what he calls his SPS, Shana Positioning System. Just like some people can do complex math in their heads (NOT ME), I was somehow gifted with a natural map and a compass in my head. It's not perfect, but it serves me pretty well, and I have actually worked as a tour guide in the past. In addition to my natural gift, I enjoy studying maps, geography, and history. Anything to give me a better sense of where I am and where I am going. I rarely get lost, and don't panic if I do, since I have enough confidence in my general sense of direction to get myself out of anywhere.

The other day I was at a consult for new clients, and I was explaining my role to them, when it occured to me: I'm a tour guide for birth. It's not my job to pick the destination, or even the nature of the route, but I guide and support along the way. I am knowledgeable about various speed bumps that can come up, detours and rerouting. I navigate the path confidently, but know that each time is a new exploration, with its own wonder and discovery. I can gently remind those I guide when they are straying from the route they chose, and either help them find their way back, or forge a new road. I bring with me certain tools to help make the journey a little easier, but mostly use my confidence and knowledge to support those who may be a little uncertain.

As I navigate my journey as a birthworker, I guess it should come as no suprise to those who know me that I find myself once again in such a role. Some things come naturally to us, and it is our job to embrace those gifts. Just don't ask me to do any mental math and things will be just fine.


Featured Posts
Recent Posts
Search By Tags
Follow Us
No tags yet.
  • Facebook Basic Square
  • Twitter Basic Square
  • Google+ Basic Square
RSS Feed
bottom of page