Writing My Story
Week 115 – May 29, 2022 – My kid is an adult
It’s hard to believe that we are 115 weeks into the pandemic. It’s become the “new normal.” We are living with COVID-19 and finding ways to get back to regular life. I will admit that the pandemic offered me valuable time to reflect and understand what’s important to me. Last week I switched my blog from a reflection of what is to celebrating what I love. It’s still a pandemic reflection but focused on gratitude.
Today is my kid’s 19th birthday. She is and has been the best part of my life. I never anticipated on having children as a professional, but I had her when I was 32, a year after I got married and completed my master’s degree. I was so grateful to have her. She transformed my life ever since she was born. Giving birth to her was one of the most difficult things I’ve done in my life. It was humbling, scary, and rewarding.
I remember the day when we took her home, I wondered… who is this stranger in my home? She was 100% dependent on me and she has taught me so much as a person, mom, and educator. It’s been a journey, no question. I cannot believe it’s been 19 years together and I am so happy that she lives with me in Prince George and she is also independent. She has become a beautiful adult and I’m so happy for her.
My kid has made the last year AMAZING and I am so grateful that she is a part of my life. Having her here has helped me to settle in this new place, to start my new life, and write my story. It’s taken some time to feel settled and more like myself. I love where I am and I appreciate all of the people I’ve met and befriended. Last week was convocation and I was so proud of the graduates but I also loved seeing people again.
It has come to my attention that I love what I am doing and I am not defined by others. I have to define what I want to do and I am the maker of my next steps. I look back over the last few years and honestly, my life was crazy. I was uncertain and driven by extrinsic motivators that I felt were out of my control. Now I see that my drive is intrinsic and it’s in my control. I learned this from my EDUC 634 course.
I love people. I love my kid. And, I love the authentic relationships I am making. I am living the next chapter of my life and I am hopeful and optimistic. I understand that this journey will not be perfect, but I am able, competent, and wholehearted. That’s all that matters. I know that my area of work is judged and consumed by others, but the lesson I am learning is that I am part of the formula too. Do what gives me joy.