February 11th...

*9 years ago, i was almost 3 months pregnant with my only child. not being well versed in the pregnancy thing, i thought i'd learn a thing or two from my sister-in-law who was due to give birth any day. i actually had attended that first childbirth class but frankly they grossed me out so i never went back.

i asked my hubby to drop me off at the hospital. he asked me if i was sure and i insisted. before long, i joined my SIL in her hospital room. she informed me that the doctor said that it would be at least 4 more hours before any meaningful activity would take place. then she started talking about centimetres and dilating and stuff like that...lost me there. then out of nowhere, she started breathing all funny. i started to squirm as i watched her stuff crushed ice down her throat. i was definitely ready to leave. i decided i'd call my hubby to turn around and get me post haste.

that's when my SIL whispered through laboured breaths, "i think the baby is coming". the nurse assured me, i mean, my SIL that no such thing would happen because she wasn't ready yet. more centimetre talk followed. after a few moments of them going back and forth, the nurse said, "go ahead then and push." so my SIL pushed...and out popped a baby head! i stood in disbelief as the nurse directed ME of all people to push the red button. since there were only the three of us in the room, i guess that was a logical choice for this clearly knowledgeable nurse who moments earlier assured me no such thing would happen. she betta be glad i didn't faint because i was surely feeling nauseous. but somehow, miraculously, i made it over to the red button and i pushed it. medical personnel swarmed the room and within minutes, my nephew was safely delivered into this beautiful world. today, i celebrate his birthday with joy and a little bit of pride, knowing that i was integral part of that divine experience.

*a few years ago, on an otherwise ordinary day, i was hanging out with my friend BJ. my phone rang and i distinctly remember the shaky voice on the other line saying, "Doris. she's gone." it was all too surreal. as bravely as her 39-year-old body fought against breast cancer, JAH had other plans for her angelic soul. i accept that. it's been four years now and i still miss you Ms. Doris. every single day. but through this painful experience, i've gained a most treasured friend, her sister Vchelle. i love you to infinity, sisterfriend!

*today is also the wedding anniversary of a dear friend who epitomizes love in all its glory. She has taught me so much about love and life and i cannot thank her enough for extending her big heart to me. happy anniversary Empress Christina. you really mean the world to me. wishing you many, many more.

*20 years ago today, the iconic Nelson Mandela was released from a South African prison where he spent 27 years in captivity for his political stance against apartheid. i am moved by the incredible strength it must have taken to stand by his personal convictions in light of his persecution. i salute you Madiba.

*and finally, tomorrow will be a day of mourning in haiti to mark the one month anniversary of the devastating earthquake which has claimed over two hundred and thirty thousand (230,000) lives. the situation has only worsened since then. i pray for my brothers and sisters that tomorrow will be a better day. blessed love.

*as you can see, February 11th has been an ambivalent day for me historically. i continue to meditate, pray, and show love to others as much as i am able. i celebrate life, knowing that each day is a gift. may love find you wherever you are today. thank you all for always stopping by and leaving such kind words here. i appreciate you more than words can say.

one love.