Relationship Reflection

Relationships are important to me because of the support that they provide. Through relationships, I am able to take on others' perspectives, voice my opinions, hear and give advice, and just plain have fun. Below you will see several people whom I care about and through which a positive relationship has formed. You will read about why we have a positive relationship and also how we maintain our relationship to this day:

1. Carolyn is my mother. Ever since I can remember, my mom has always been there for me, regardless of the type or size of the problem. She would listen to me if something was wrong, if something was exciting, or if it was just about how my day went. She told me everyday how proud she was of me, whether it was something great like tying my shoe for the first time on the way to Kindergarten registration or something little like eating all of my vegetables. At an early age, she taught me how to be caring and compassionate towards others and also how to actively listen to others.

Now, my mom is still the same crutch for me as she was when I was young. She has taught me so many crucial things in life, the first being to never speak badly about people. Although I have had my share of frustrating days with people, my mom always reminds me that other people, no matter who, have their own battles that they're dealing with...so we shouldn't add on to them. Another trait that has influenced me now is her "people skills." I do believe that without her communication skills, I would not possess my own that she has passed on to me. Last, my mother is still always there for me and is still proud of me no matter what. This gives me the confidence to try new things, as well as be the woman I am today.

2. Denis is my father. When I was a child, my dad was always the one to push me further. Even when I didn't think I could do better, he somehow gave me the motivation I needed in order to hit the T-ball farther, get the A in school, or whatever other instance there was. And since I always tried so hard to make my dad proud, I usually accomplished whatever I set my mind to. Furthermore, not only did he encourage me to do my best, but he also kept me on track if I happened to get distracted...what I mean by this, is that my dad was definitely the disciplinarian. Although I got in my fair share of trouble, I always learned my lesson.

Now, my daddy is still the man he was when I was a little girl. He continues to encourage me to do better, again whether it be at my work, with my finances, or with getting that A in school. I continue to ask my dad for advice because I know he is much wiser than me when it comes to most things. And now that he can't necessarily ground me like the good ole' days (ha), he has taught me all I need to know about self-discipline. I am the woman I am today because of my dad.

3. Mark is my brother. Although my mom worried about how my brother and I would get along with a ten year difference, I'd say we got along just fine. My brother, being ten years older than me, always was very protective of me when I was young. My mom told me that shortly after I was born, he would do a screening on all of the people who came to visit me to make sure they weren't sick. I can definitely picture this! Even though there were more times than not when he'd tell me to "go play" when I annoyed him, he was still a great role model to me. Not to mention, he put up with me...I'm sure that was no easy task!

Now today, Mark is still my "protector," and words can't describe how thankful I am for that. Whether it be which stocks to invest in or which airline I should take, my brother is always there to assist me with decisions. Without him, I wouldn't be the woman I am today.

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Challenges that occur in all relationships I think, is a difference of opinion. Although this is one aspect that I also like about relationships, it can also take a toll on a relationship. I have learned over the years to embrace these differences and accept that each of us has our own perspective, and that's what makes us all unique.

My experiences with the above relationships (and others not mentioned), have impacted my work as an early childhood professional. I have learned the essential components of working together as a team through these relationships. I have learned that being nice, respectful, and caring go a long way. I have also learned to being dependable, willing, and honest are great characteristics to possess when working with others, especially family members of students.