First off, I have to say, your hair looks absolutely stunning today! Seriously, it’s like something from a fancy shampoo commercial, with the way it glistens. It probably took you ages to style it between picking out the perfect pair of trendy sweats and deciding which flavored water to sip on. I can only imagine how exhausting it must be to have so much time to dedicate to your self-care routine.
About Your Remark
Now, about your remark (made right in front of my child) that college isn’t a daycare — you’re absolutely correct. Daycare is where parents drop off their little ones to go to work or school, which is precisely what I was doing today, just with my daughter in tow.
Today was one of those days where life threw me a curveball. I opted to face it head-on instead of feeling embarrassed about sitting in a lecture with my daughter beside me. You may not realize it, but she was there because her school was closed and my babysitters couldn’t make it. I get that this might not resonate with you yet, but perhaps one day when you’re a parent, or just a more seasoned adult, you’ll recognize that my presence with her in class isn’t meant to disrupt your experience.
My Journey as a Single Mom
As a single mom of two incredible kiddos, I’ve made the decision to pursue my master’s degree after years of working in retail. Yes, it’s a bit unconventional — moving to a college town with a 10-year-old and a 4-year-old for education.
I juggle being a full-time student, working, managing a household, and raising my kids 24/7 without any additional support. I’m not on financial aid or public assistance; I work tirelessly to provide for my family and ensure my children have the best opportunities possible.
I don’t expect you to grasp the complexities of this life, but it’s important to acknowledge that life isn’t always neat and tidy. Plans often shift, and for many of us, flexibility is key. We’re navigating challenges, but we find our way.
Lessons Learned
Every day, when I drop my kids off or bid them farewell, I remind myself that the hurdles we face are temporary. They’re stepping stones to a better future for us. I’m grateful for the chance to pursue education and have a safe space for my children, even if that means being their safe haven today.
In class, my daughter was wide-eyed at the sheer size of the institution, overwhelmed by the number of students flooding into the lecture hall. I felt that same anxiety when I returned to school after years away. But what happened next was enlightening. She watched me with pride as I engaged in the lecture, asking questions and taking notes. I was doing my best to learn while also managing a little nosebleed incident, all the while ignoring any judgment around us.
Then, she put aside her iPad and requested paper to draw — she mimicked my diagrams and began doodling as I did. In that moment, it became clear this experience transcended mere scheduling conflicts; it was a powerful bonding moment for us both. It didn’t matter that she was there because of circumstances outside our control; what mattered was that she got to witness first-hand what I’m striving for.
Today, she saw the part of my life that she usually isn’t present for. She was inspired by my efforts, and that made everything worth it. Little eyes are always watching, and I want her to learn that even when faced with challenges, one can stay committed to their goals.
Does she fully comprehend this now? Maybe not yet, but she’s absorbing lessons through experiences like today. I realized that my journey as a parent and student was more significant than any judgment I might face.
Being a Role Model
In moments like these, where I’m deep into a lecture about cellular structures and see her creating her own doodles, I recognize the importance of being a role model. I’m proud of being a mom, a student, and a person who strives for success, despite the challenges.
So yes, my daughter came to class with me today, and it was a big deal, but not in the way you think. The real inconvenience lies in your judgment.
I look forward to the day when I can hand her the drawings she made today on her graduation day. And I hope to be there in the audience when she shares her own experiences, doodling along the way.
P.S. I apologize for correcting your answer during the lecture; I was a bit preoccupied with my lecture notes while my nails dried last night.
To read more about related topics, check out this insightful post on home insemination and learn more about artificial insemination at Make a Mom.
In Summary
In summary, today was not just about a mother bringing her daughter to class; it was a profound moment of learning and inspiration for both of us. The challenges of parenting and education may seem burdensome to some, but they are also filled with invaluable lessons.