Dear Tracy,
Tonight while tidying up the kitchen as my kid asked for dinner (finally) at 8 pm, I was struck by this thought: I should have asked if she was okay.
Let me back up…
Monday, I was talking to a mom and relaying a story about a friend’s travels and how I’m a bit envious and gosh wouldn’t it be nice to get away by myself for a week or two to a remote location. And overheard by another mother, she proceeded (with some palpable disdain) to comment on how she gave up her chance to live that life for her husband and children. She said, “I gave up a life, FOR YOU…?!?” and at the moment I felt awkward.
I felt we all make sacrifices, but aren’t they worth it? It’s a different path in life, but it’s worth it when your kid runs up to you and gives you a kiss whispering how happy they are you came back to pick them up from school before running off to play on the playground for just one more minute (or hour in his case).
And instead of responding, I just let her vent with minimal interaction on my part.
