Relationship Reflection

            From my English literature courses, I remember what the poet John Donne stated in Meditation XVII, “No man is an island” (quote taken from http://www.online-literature.com/donne/409/).  I believe this to be true.  We are all part of the human race and our actions, or sometimes lack thereof, affect our relationships.  I believe that relationships are crucial in our lives. 

            In my own life I have many important relationships.  The first relationship that is of importance is that with my husband.  We have been married for eight years, and he is the love that I waited for!  He is different from me-outspoken and analytical.  I think this is what makes our relationship so fun.  He compensates for me in my weak areas and I in his.  The biggest barrier we have faced is quality time together.  He works from home now as a medical transcriptionist, and has a flexible schedule.  He used to work in retail on the weekends, and attend college, so our time was limited.  Now I am the one attending college and working full time.  He is creative in the ways we get to spend quality time together.  I must say he is a blessing to me.

            Next is the relationship with my daughter.  She is four years old and is constantly coming up with cute things.  I am a bit biased, but I believe that she is very smart.  She is analytical like her daddy.  Again, one of the challenges we face is quality time.  I have to remind myself that these days with her will never come again, and I need to enjoy every minute of her childhood.  I try to cultivate our relationship by spending time with her and doing things of interest to her.  I am trying to teach her some of the lessons passed down to me by my grandparents and parents.  She is truly a joy-we waited so long for her.

            My parents are a continuing influence in my life.  I do not always agree with everything that they say and do, but I do try to respect them.  I believe that having a respect for them has helped our relationship flourish over the years, even during those hard teenage years.  They have always encouraged me and have given me support even now.  For example I once told them that I was not sure I was going to continue my graduate courses.  Both parents have said, “Go for it!”  and they have always had that attitude.  I always felt accepted and loved by my parents.

            Work relationships are also important to me.  I have a great group of co-workers this year.  We truly are a team.  Our relationship extends beyond school and we are friends.  It is sometimes hard to be honest with others, and I have learned that even when I get mad, it is better to be open and honest rather than let feelings fester.  In thinking about work relationships, my assistant teacher is a very important one to me.  She is very creative and hard working.  I try to listen to her ideas, and implement them as appropriate.  She is also a friend and we have shared many joys and sorrows together.

            I could go on about important relationships (but I won’t since this is getting wordy!).  I feel that having relationships helps us weather the storms of life together, and celebrate the triumphs!  In thinking how relationships impact the role of an early childhood educator, I believe one of the biggest things I have learned from my relationships is respect and quality.  I may not always agree with a parent, but if I have a relationship, I can respectfully disagree.  Respect carries over to the work environment as well.  Additionally, I believe that quality is important.  Taking the time to get to know my students and their families is beneficial. I must take the time to develop quality relationships.