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Reflecting on Relationships


    The Oxford English Dictionary defines a relationship as, "the way in which two or more concepts, objects, or people are connected, or the state of being connected." As an Early Childhood Educator, it is important to have long-term healthy relationships that I can rely on to support, encourage and uplift me so that I am able to be the best teacher I can be. 

     This week I would like to take a deeper look at a few personal relationships that have shaped me into the person I am today. 

    One of the greatest relationships I have is with my husband, Brandon. He is a gift from God and a huge blessing in my life. We have been together for 4 years, and I am beyond thankful for his support and wisdom. I used to say, "I only want to marry someone who has seen the worst of me, and I can trust enough to walk through fire with." Long before I could fully understand the depth of that statement, that is what I said I wanted. Dear reader, I got what I hoped for. Shortly after we started dating we experienced: grief, loss of loved ones, severe diagnoses for some of our family members, and panic attacks. Each loss, each heartbreak, each tear, we supported each other the best we could. We improved on our ability to communicate our feelings and lean on each other in order to stay afloat. He became (and still is) the person I could trust to walk through life with and face the many challenges it holds. One of the many things I appreciate about Brandon is that he consistently encourages me to take steps to become a more successful, independent, and smarter person. We are far from perfect, but our relationship has been something that I am beyond grateful for. It has helped me grow in so many wonderful ways, and I look forward to continuing to pursue a relationship with my dear Brandon.

    One of the first relationships one can build is with their parents/caregivers. One of my most treasured relationships is the one I have with my father. If you read my Personal Childhood Web post, I go into a bit of detail about my relationship with my father. We became very close after I moved out of my mom's house, and he began opening up about his side of their divorce which took place when I was very young. Hearing his story and his truth opened my eyes not only to the full story of their divorce, but it reminded me of how much my father has grown since the days of my childhood. My father has become someone I can rely on no matter what. He loves unconditionally and is a rock in my life amidst the waves of life. He supports me as best as he can, and I feel secure knowing he has my back.
    Each family member and friend that I have, has played a huge role in who I am today. My Tias and Tios (aunts and uncles) are so important to me, and each of my cousins are close to my heart. Their influence and support have been so necessary in my life. It really does "take a village" to support each other. I am so thankful for all the support I have received from friends and family, and I hope that they also feel supported and loved by me.

Comments

  1. Channette's Early Childhood Studies BlogMarch 21, 2021 at 1:45 PM

    Congratulations on your marriage. I loved your statement about being with someone that has seen you at your worse. You know you have found a lifelong friend, when you find someone that will never leave your side. Life can have its challenges, but finding someone to support you during those times is a blessing. Thank you for sharing the story about your father and yours relationship. It was very brave of you to take the steps to having a better relationship with your father. You never know what type of relationship you can have with someone until you try.

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