First of all, let me compliment you on your hairstyle today. It looked stunning, reminiscent of those glamorous Pantene commercials where models toss their hair with carefree elegance. I can only imagine the time you invested this morning, balancing your choice of trendy loungewear and artisanal beverages, while perhaps contemplating the perfect shade of nail polish from your extensive collection. I don’t envy the pressure of those decisions; having such ample time for self-care must be quite the luxury.
Now, regarding your comment about college “not being a daycare,” I’d like to clarify something. You’re correct—daycare is a place where children are left behind while adults go about their day, whether that’s at work or in college. And as you noted, I had no alternative today.
Today presented a unique challenge. I made the choice to embrace reality, rather than shy away in embarrassment for attending a lecture with my daughter beside me. I could explain that the reason she was with me—due to unexpected school closures and last-minute babysitter cancellations—might not be apparent to someone without children. I’m aware that for those without kids, this situation might seem perplexing. However, someday, when you’re a parent or perhaps a more seasoned adult, you may grasp that it wasn’t my intention to disrupt your adult learning experience. This was about us.
My life consists of my two remarkable children and me navigating through our everyday challenges. After several fruitful years in healthcare, I decided to pursue my master’s degree. Yes, a single mother relocating to a college town with a 10-year-old and a 4-year-old for education—quite the adventure, right?
As a full-time student, I juggle work, home responsibilities, and parenting without any external support, financial aid, or public assistance. I strive hard for our well-being, good schooling for my kids, and my degree. I don’t expect you to understand the weight of these responsibilities, but I assure you that life is unpredictable, and priorities can shift dramatically.
Every day, as I drop my children off or say goodbye, I remind myself that the struggles we face are temporary. They are motivated by the desire to improve our lives and contribute positively to the world. I also remind myself how fortunate I am for opportunities in education and employment, and for safe environments for my kids when I cannot be there. But today, I was that safe haven. And you know what? That’s perfectly fine.
Today, my daughter accompanied me to class. She was awed by the scale of the university, overwhelmed by the crowd in the lecture hall, and visibly nervous as the professor’s voice filled the room. I completely understand that feeling—I’ve felt it myself since returning to school after a lengthy hiatus. But what unfolded next was heartening for both of us.
She witnessed me sitting proudly next to her, including her in this significant experience without hesitation. She saw me engage in the lecture, ask questions, take notes, and even make mistakes and correct them. In that moment, she observed my determination to learn. She even witnessed me multitasking—helping her through a minor incident while focusing on the lecture, regardless of the stares and murmurs around us.
Then, inspired by my actions, she set down her iPad and started drawing on paper, replicating the diagrams I was sketching. Suddenly, it became clear that this experience transcended mere logistical challenges. It was a meaningful moment for both of us. It didn’t matter that her school was closed or that I felt anxious about bringing her along. What mattered was that she got to join me, and together we embraced the situation. She was able to see the dedication behind my daily departures and the purpose of my education.
I’m raising future adults, and I’m imperfectly navigating the challenges of motherhood and academia. I recognize your view of my daughter’s presence as disruptive, but it’s unfortunate that not everyone shares my perspective on the value of this experience. I choose to see it as an opportunity to demonstrate resilience and commitment to my children, regardless of opinions.
Little eyes are always observing. They see that I tackle challenges while remaining steadfast in my ambitions, not allowing anyone to diminish my efforts or my children’s presence. For my daughter to witness my vulnerability and strength amidst judgment serves as a lesson in perseverance and success.
Does she fully understand this now? Perhaps not, but she’s absorbing valuable life lessons through experiences like ours. Moments like when I’m deep in a complex lecture about molecular biology and glance over to see her drawing alongside me remind me of the incredible journey we are on together. These are instances when setting a positive example for my children outweighs anyone else’s opinions.
Today, my daughter joined me in class. Was it significant? Absolutely, though maybe not in ways you can appreciate. The only real inconvenience here is the judgment passed on our situation.
I look forward to the day I can present her with the sketches she created during this lecture on her graduation day. I hope to attend her classes one day and perhaps doodle together.
P.S. I apologize for correcting your answer in front of the class; while my sparkly polish dried last night, I was busy reviewing lecture notes.
In summary, this experience was more than just a scheduling issue; it was a pivotal moment between a mother striving to succeed and a daughter inspired by her efforts. Education isn’t solely about lectures and textbooks; it’s also about the lessons we learn through life.