Last Day

Yesterday was my last day at Bottom. It was as I anticipated - just another day. I conducted one vacuum delivery and two normal deliveries. I sat and talked with and rubbed the back of a frightened 19-year-old as she labored. I helped resuscitate two babies. No one remembered that it was my last day except Msiska. She told me they’ll miss my skills. “Any time there is an asphyxiated baby we always wish you were here,” she said. She said she will miss my presence and my friendship. I bought a cake and it was eaten. After three years at Bottom I know, without self pity or drama that my presence had the minimal impact of a drop of water in a pool. That does not bother me. I know it was different with the women. And, I am ready for a change. I am looking forward to the future. I’m sure someday I will return and work again in the new maternity hospital. I hope to find the conditions better. I hope I will have more to give.