Today: A Rare Personal Entry
Posted 5/14/2011
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If you are a regular reader of this blog, you know that very infrequently I write a personal entry. Today deserves one. I am in St Paul, MN with my husband; we are visiting my daughter, son-in-law, and perfect 2 year old Frances. (aside: what a delicious way to start the day: snuggling with a warm granddaughter). We are here this particular week-end because my daughter is graduating with her PhD in Social Work.
She actually finished the degree, defended her dissertation, and was given the diploma in October. However, the University has graduation only once a year, and this is the day. As you would expect, I am really proud of her. She is a young woman who has absolutely found her niche. As an academic (she is on the faculty), she can spend her days learning and surrounded by books--in addition, of course, to teaching and meetings and all the usual details of a profession. She was a child who continually had her nose in a book; I remember telling her to put it aside while she brushed her teeth or walked downstairs.
In addition to the pride, I have the special joy and gratitude that we all experience on special days. There was never any certainty that I would be here. There was never any certainty that I would be at her college graduation, let alone this one. I will applaud and stamp my feet and, no doubt, weep this afternoon while I remember all the moments of sadness and worry--and think of all the mothers who have not had the chance to be present. I celebrate her, most of all, but I will also be celebrating and remembering all of us who love our children and want, most of all, to encourage and protect their futures.
L'Chaim. To life.
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