A young mother.
A single mother.
And I'm reminded even more just how "okay" it is when I embrace it with grace and confidence.
Case in point: Last night, I attended a New Parent's Reception at the private school Aiden will be going to in the fall. As I walked into the fancy reception hall, I have to admit that I was a bit self-conscious. I'm human. It happens.
Now, I'm a pretty social person and can comfortably make my way around pretty much any social situation. But, last night, at first I was nervous to even talk to anyone.
But then something amazing happened. I remembered that, umm, I'm grown. And I did my due diligence to get my son a spot in the school -- just like every other parent in the room. So... I decided to accept that glass of Chardonnay that was being passed around and loosen up a bit. (But not in that order.)
And then something even more amazing happened. Once I decided to "be myself" by acting like the sweet, funny, social, and witty Alicia that I've grown to know and love, I noticed that people seemed to have liked her. A lot.
Then something even more amazing happened. (The evening just kept getting better and better, eh?) I spotted one of the admissions officers that I'd met a few months ago when Aiden and I were going through the
So there you have it.
After two years of telling myself that it's okay to be myself, I think I like who I'm becoming...
That's the thing about embracing who you are and owning it -- you just never know who you might touch. Or inspire.
Always remember that.
I don't think I'm much older than you, Alicia, but I can tell you that no matter the age, we ALL find ourselves in those situations at times. For different reasons.
ReplyDeleteNo matter the reason, loving who YOU are makes it really easy for other people to do the same. It's really that simple.
Glad the reception went well. What did you wear? :-)
isn't it amazing the lessons you learn when you least expect it? i know how that admissions officer feels. being a reader of your blog, if i ever bump into you - trust it will be with open arms girl! :)
ReplyDeleteAs women we hold "the key", we really do.
ReplyDeleteit takes some longer than others to get there, but I'm glad you did and am happy for you.
what you're saying in this post, is what i wrote about recently http://lifeofabrother-nylse.blogspot.com/2012/05/key.html
I share the sentiments of the other commenters. We've all been there. It is a good feeling when you can just be you and know it's ok. Know that you are important and have something to share with the world. Keep blogging.
ReplyDeleteIsn't that something. It sounds like this school is really a great place for Aiden and also for YOU too
ReplyDeleteYou are definitely NOT a stereotype lady...you are so much more and doing better than most parents who are two-parent!! Be yourself!!
ReplyDeleteKudos to you for letting your guard down and finding comfort in being yourself!
ReplyDeletei always feel more inspired after I visit you...
ReplyDeleteI agree with Megan.
ReplyDeleteI know the feelings. I often feel out of place at certain places, especially things at their schools. I'm glad you were able to conquer the night. You are truely giving Aiden the best life.
I feel you. Sometimes we tend to be who we thought other want us to be rather than be ourselves. I was less conscious when I was younger but as I grow older I feel like I need to be at certain standard failing to see that what matters is myself, my family and that's it! Thanks for sharing, Alicia :)
ReplyDeleteCome walk my footsteps in my visit to Venice/Treviso:
http://mrsjackofalltradesdaily.blogspot.com/2012/05/micro-break-from-heat-veneto-italy.html
Great post...we love who've you been, who you are becoming, and who you will be! the rogers
ReplyDeleteI can totally relate!
ReplyDeleteThat's so cool, Alicia! Glad that you warmed up and felt comfortable to be YOU.
ReplyDeleteIsnt it amazing when you discover all the people who read your blog, and who you touch through it?