My husband's Auntie passed away a few weeks ago. Bernice was gentle and sweet and one of the words that described her best was mentioned at her memorial service: noble. It reminded me of a bible passage that reminded me of her and so many other women like her.
Proverbs 31:10-31
A wife of noble character, who can find her? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, allthe days of her life. She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls. She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. She sees that her trading is profitable and her lamp does not go out at night. In her hand she holds her distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers. She extends her hands to the needy.
When it snows, she has no fear for her household, for all are clothed in scarlet. She makes coverings for her bed and she is clothed in fine linen and purple. Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land. She makes linen garments and sells them and supplies the merchants with sashes. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also and he praises her. "Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all". Charm is deceptive, beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD shall be praised. Give her the reward she has earned and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
So how does this apply to my practice? I want each woman I ever meet to see her worth, to know that the work she does to care for her family is worthy. That everything she does shows her value, and that she profoundly effects the lives of others around her with her work, no matter what it is. Her character is what makes her noble. I know many noble women, working hard in their homes being good stewards of the home they have, being good life mates to their partner and good protectors and providers for their families. I guess I just hope that they know that just because they don't have a fancy degree hanging on the wall or a fat paycheck each week that they are "worth more than rubies". I hope that while we are providing great medical care tot he women who come through our practice that we are honoring this aspect of their lives as well.
Ah well...have a great Sunday afternoon and be good out there (but take time and have fun as well!!)
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