Well. Hmmm. I've spent the better part of the last week balancing concerns for Brittney (my college sophmoric daughter). Concerns for her stress, research papers, impending finals, and generally busy schedule. As any parent can attest, it is always difficult to stand by and watch a child become independent. From the first baby steps until they chart an independent life course which veers away from our own, parents can offer support, guidance, and encouragement but little else. As in every life step, our children grow to become someone else- an independent individual human being destined to walk their own life's path.
That brings me back to Brittney. I'm proud of the course she is charting for herself. When we suggested she choose a career path which seemed interesting to us- she said "No, I want to be a teacher." When we suggested that perhaps there were careers which would command higher salaries- she said "No, I think I want to be a teacher." At times, it is difficult to parent an independent, self-assured child. But, after all, isn't that the ultimate goal we wish to achieve in an adult?
Brittney has always walked to the beat of a different drummer. Often emotional, always dramatic, charitable, equitable, and kind- she has an inner strength that I don't think she has discovered for herself yet. But that's ok, she will discover it when she needs to.
Earlier this evening, I found that she had spent some time this afternoon fighting for her life in an epic tickle battle. Geesh, and I was worried about alcohol and drugs at college. Back to the tickling, I was somewhat taken back and immediately concerned for the research paper and final she is studying for. Then, I paused a moment.
I looked at this episode in a whole new way. I realized that Brittney has learned to not take herself too seriously. There is always humor in life and she is blessed with a wonderful supportive group of friends- Jessica, Timothy, Kyle, Katie, Sean to name a few- who support her in person while we are supporting her in spirit. I think we could all learn a little from the study group at Morehead University. We should all take 15 minutes of the day to laugh until we cry, turn off our computers for a little while, and tickle someone.
Thanks Brittney and Company for reminding us who you really are and what is really important in life.
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