Today my "little girl" is 18 years old and I am left wondering where time went!! I remember some of my students visiting the house to see her and hoping that she grew up to "be" like some of them. Well, my wish certainly came true- she is a very good student, involved in activities and athletics, is well behaved most of the time, and is someone we are very proud of. I spent last Thursday with Rachel touring Eastern Illinois University where she has been accepted and plans on attending. As a 1984 EIU grad, I walked proudly around campus showing her where I had classes and emphasizing how much time I spent in the library (she didn't really believe me) and our friend Jess did an outstanding job of guiding our tour through dorm rooms, dining halls, and athletic facilities. Having another official "adult" in the house is a different feeling!!
Adulthood brings with it the responsibilities of planning for the future, creating your own opportunities, handling change, and "leaving your mark"! I asked Rachel at one point if she could "see herself" at EIU- could she see herself walking 15 minutes from Carmen Hall to class in the middle of winter, or cheering on the Panthers at a basketball game, or making the 2 1/2 hour drive to Charleston by herself. I didn't elaborate on what I meant by "see herself" but I sensed she understood- she quickly responded YES- and that moment convinced me she was ready for college. Ready for the experiences that will shape her as a young adult.
Adulthood brings with it the reality that change is inevitable and not always easy. It brings the pressures of providing leadership and guidance through the process and working with people at whatever "level" of acceptance or non-acceptance they may be. A "change" for me has been living with the reality of missing my parents and the joy they would have experienced from watching our children grow. I always listened as my elders would say "enjoy those kids as they grow up- it happens too fast"- but I never really heard them or understood. Now I am the one in the new teacher meeting providing insight and history on our organization, the one in the stands doing much more watching and clapping than "coaching" like I used to. The one people ask questions and opinions of as if my answer makes a difference.
I guess this is adulthood is like- so Rachel- I wish you the best in your journey and know that Namna and Papa would be proud of you!!
