It's my belief that whether we like it or not, we are all connected in some form or fashion. Fundamentally, there are many daily rituals and values we share such as paying bills, eating dinner, grocery store shopping, the list goes on and on. During many of those events that take us outside our homes, we may participate in casual conversations that render similarities and likes in hobbies, professional/personal interest, restaurants, and also past experiences. The very beginning of a wonderful relationship can all start with an innocent conversation.
I'm fortunate to have various professional and personal relationships that have assisted in my growth in both areas. There are two previous supervisors that I remain in contact with after they have been in retirement for over 15 years. The level of respect and appreciation I feel for these ladies goes beyond any words that I have in my vocabulary. There have been countless moments where I have been stumped on what my next moves should be in resolving a very complex situation where their guidance and affirmation has given me the courage to make a decision and see it through with the ability to recognize and accept any adjustments that need to be made. These ladies are both retired early childhood education professors(a teacher and a administrator) and there is not a day that goes by that I'm not grateful for their expertise.
My previous travels have allowed me to meet, develop, and maintain some long distance relationships with people who come from other regions of the world. Their advice and wisdom often still assist me in the ever mysterious world of parenting and family dynamics. In their company, I learned to appreciate different taste in cuisines, hair styling, dress attire, family dynamics and conversations in general. I became more well rounded as an individual and also was able to relate better to others when I took a position at an organization that focused on international services.
All the relationships that I have spoken of are reciprocal in the sense that just as much as I feel that I appreciate and learn from all of our interactions, they feel exactly the same way in return. We value our relationships enough to share in the responsibility of continuing to keep in touch with one another. We also share what we've learned from each with others that we come in contact with, that way we empower others to understanding a respect of all types of diversity and knowledge of people. Again, it can all start with the openness of a conversation and the willingness to cultivate and value the relationship.
