Ten years ago, on October 9, 2002, I passed my national certification exam and became a massage therapist.
The exam was at a testing facility just outside of Richmond. On the drive home, I got a call from a person with deep and unrelenting hip pain. I did my first massage as a Certified Therapist later that afternoon. (That the client never came back was a little disappointing, but I did my best.)
Ten years is such a long-short time!
When I graduated from massage school I was asked to give the commencement address. I shared these words:
“The noted natualist and poet Diane Ackerman once wrote, ‘Touch seems to be as essential as sunlight.’ How lucky we are to have found a way to share this most basic — and healthful — gift with others. May we all create a healing touch that will, in its small way, give peace and comfort to this world.”
Ten years ago, I had no idea if this would be a career or a hobby. If my work as a massage therapist would last one week, one month, one year … or just one client. But, you had faith in me. You helped me learn. You allowed me to explore. You allowed me to work my way through your aches and pains.
The National Certification Board made me “CERTIFIED.” YOU made me a THERAPIST.
I want to thank each of you who put your trust and faith in me, who enrich and inspire me in many, many ways, and who teach me so much about living a healthy and rewarding life.
I am so grateful for all you have given me … here’s to another 10!
If you’d like to visit my massage website … here it is: www.amtamembers.com/peacefulhands
One day, I will figure out a way to merge this Yoga blog and my massage website into a single place. Sometime. In the next 10 years.
Peaceful Hands Yoga 
All I can say is, I'm sure glad you passed and are doing what you're doing! Keep up the good work.
Martha
Jackie., your hands are magic…..I thank you so much for all you have done for me. I look forward to my regular massages, and couldn't imagine my life without you., or them! I know you will continue to share this gift and if someone who is reading this hasn't yet experienced your touch, I would highly recommend that they do.