In every family, there is one person that everyone loads up their concerns upon. This person happens to be me. From as far back as I can remember I was first, the family counselor, then the community “nurse”. It also became apparent to my mother, her friends and my friends that I am not one to share or discuss another person’s secrets no matter who asked or what tactics they used. Therefore, along with being the nurse I was also their confidant. This made me feel good and important that people trusted me, my peers as well as adults, and so I made certain that they continued to trust me.
Growing up I always made excuses for other’s behavior or that is what my friends always said. Even during my high school years, I thought there was a reason behind every behavior. What I did not realize then was that by nature I was just being empathetic. “Why” was always the first thing that came to mind when someone acted out of character.
I come from a very humble background and education was not a priority for the mere fact that it was beyond our means financially. In addition, I was not academically inclined. I was barely passing my courses. With the passing of time though, I have come to the realization that if you want something bad enough, you will make the sacrifices to get it.
Until very recently, my family and very small circle of friends referred to me as being antisocial. I am quick to say I did not have a choice but to get out of it considering that I am parent. If I did find myself in a social setting, I would be observing on the sidelines wondering the cause of the different behaviors and attitudes displayed. I was also very active in my children’s school activities, volunteering to counsel troubled children and I loved it. I always experienced great joy when speaking with a student, and seeing the expression of hope on their face that initially expressed hopelessness.
By nature, I am an observant person. The idea of becoming a...