Tuesday, March 01, 2011
"I should have been a great many things"
I had a required one-on-one meeting with one of my professors today. We were supposed to discuss our writing portfolios: corrections and rewrites and thematic issues. I walked in and started to pull out my portfolio and she stopped me saying that I obviously know how to write and we have nothing to discuss but the weather. We had an enjoyable chat about different issues in our field and class topics, and also got to know each other a bit better. She asked what I wanted to do with my schooling and my life and I told her that I want to teach preschool or kindergarten and am excited to complete my reading emphasis to enable me to be a reading specialist for K-12. Her eyebrows raised a bit, and she asked me why I was back in school to do that. I tried explaining again how ages three to five are my favourite, my passion for increasing literacy and how much I love teaching. In not so many words she basically said that she thought I could and should do more with my life... that she expected more out of me. My first thought was a quote from "Little Women" when Jo tells a group of men that "indeed [she] should have been a great many things." I know I'm capable, I know all the opportunities I could have if I so choose... and yet after that initial thought I immediately got defensive. My biggest responsibility and opportunity, my most important life work is being a mother to my children. While I could "do so much more," for the time being I can't possibly do so and still be the mother I want or need to be. And I also realize that, to at least four little people, I am a great many things.
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4 comments:
AMEN!! Indeed you are and always will be 'a great many things' to four precious children that have been entrusted to your care. As you and I know being a Mother certainly requires so many talents. You have and continue to bless your children's lives with your many talents. There is a time and a season for all things.
I had a co-worker--very successful woman, do the same to me. She kept telling me that I needed to go back to graduate school and that I could do great things. But instead, I keep getting pregnant and having babies. Just think of all the many great things these children will be able to accomplish in the world. What if we never had them?
my major is Elem. Ed. also. I never finished completely but feel raising my 6 children I got all the experience I need and now could do it with my eyes closed- maybe with one open. :)
Boo to her and amen to you!
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