Relationship Reflection

I do not know how I would survive without relationships to enrich and support me through the thick and thin of life.

My husband is my most constant and evolving relationship.  We've only been married for two years but we are constantly changing and adjusting to each other's needs.  We first met through our mutual friends and family. He's the one I come home to at the end of a long day of teaching who listens to the stories about the kids on the great days as well as the challenging days. Likewise, I'm there when he's a long, hard day at work to comfort him and show affection. 

It may seem unusual but a positive relationship that I value is with my dog, Buddy.  He's the greatest listener. He makes me feel loved when I come home and see him looking out the window and then greets me at the door. He knows when how I'm feeling. If I'm sad, he's by my side. If I'm happy, he's wiggling like crazy and begging to play. Likewise, I know if he's not feeling well, tired, lonely, or happy.

My relationship with my parents is one that has changed over the years.  As a child, I looked up to my parents and wanted to be like them. As a teenager, I butted heads with them and didn't understand what the big deal was about hanging out with my friends.  Now, as an adult I value the advice of my parents.  I have grown to love and respect their decisions as parents. 

The relationships I have with my childhood friends continue to grow. As children, we rode on the school bus together and went to the same church from elementary school through high school.  We had sleep overs, movie nights, date nights, etc...As grown adults with families, it's harder to find time to "hang out" but we make it a priority to have a "girls night out" at least four times a year to vent about whatever and laugh about memories.  My relationships with my childhood friends provides a connection/attachment with someone who knows so much about who I am and where I've come from.

My teaching teammates provide me with support and guidance to be successful in my classroom.  They have also become close friends whom I can share my frustrations and concerns.  They understand the demands of our professions and offer invaluable advice.

I suppose from reflecting upon relationships in my life I see a reoccurring theme. I need relationships so I feel connected, supported, and loved.  There are so many other relationships in my personal life that I can't list them all but they are all my support. All of these relationships with a wide range of people help me as an early childhood educator because I can appreciate the differences and benefits from all relationships around me. Understanding the reason why I need relationships will remind me why I need relationships with families I work with in early childhood programs - engaged, supported, welcomed!