After making the statement to my growing trio, my oldest accused me of being a hypocrite as I never achieved a university degree. Although I did attend a “trade” school, and acquired a radiologic technology license, I hated the job and gave up my accreditation. But did I ever earn a real degree? No. My daughter’s comment, although it was hurtful, was a very true observation.
And at the age of 41, I became an undergraduate student starting over…… almost a decade later I am about to achieve the brass ring.....
Each of my children showcase pieces of me. Whether it be physical attributes, personality traits or simple mannerisms, I am constantly learning new things about myself.
There is the realization of both the positive and negative examples I may have provided.
Build a relationship based on compatibility and one will learn a magnitude of lessons to be taught. You put your heart and well-being in a partner’s hands and quickly learn about the goals, aspirations and expectations of being together. This is a constant learning process of navigation and adjustment.
With siblings, there can be an interesting mix of expectancies within the family dynamic. Each may have acquired different attributes from the parent(s), some stronger than others. I have learned that the encouragements and mistakes my parents have made have had a different impact on each of us. We can use the influences to help to support and provide guidance for each other.
Being a student isn’t just about being in the classroom. It is having the ability to see, hear and understand the world around you. We learn by instruction, we also learn by our societal expectations and norms. I have acquired so much knowledge and understanding through interactive learning, if I want to learn something, I SEEK out the knowledge and learn from the experiences of others.
I have discovered over the course of my 50 years on this Earth that every aspect in your life can be a learning experience. I have learned to be a mother, sister, soulmate, classmate and friend. Accomplishments I am proud of and are all equally important pieces to the puzzle of life. Also, NEVER be afraid to learn something new! I am enjoying discovering and finding different avenues in which to enrich my life. I have realized that I love to problem-solve, and the undergraduate education was instrumental in my pursuit. I am now enjoying new hobbies that I had never thought possible; I am doing embroidery, jewelry making and culinary arts. My relationships with people have become increasingly enriched and fulfilling.