For those who know her, they know her to be the kind, caring, empathic, talkative, smiling person that she is. But, to some, she is seen as much more. She is a mother, wife, sister, daughter, cousin, teacher, student and the list goes on. To me, she is a strong, independent woman with a passion for loving those around her. But, she is also a hero and a fighter.
Living with a chronic condition is hard—trust me, I would know. But no one can attest to this more than my mother can. Sure, everyone has their good days and bad days, but watching my mother manage a chronic condition for 20 years of my life has taught me many life lessons. Here are just a few of them.
How to be a strong, independent woman
Even on the worst days, there will be a light at the end of the tunnel. I have watched my mother endure countless surgeries all with a smile on her face and still managing to put others before herself. She has taught me that each day is a gift and unless you embrace it will be hard to have a positive attitude.
Family is everything
Growing up as an only child, I learned very quickly that family always comes first. Whether it was birthday parties, holidays, anniversaries or Sunday dinners, the entire family would be present. A family is your support system; they are there to catch you when you fall and pick you back up again. The best advice I have been given is to cherish the moments you have before they are gone.
It’s okay to ask for help
Watching my mother battle a chronic condition and the pain that comes along with it has taught that me that it is okay to ask for help when you need it. Whether it is asking for help at home, school, work, sports, or from a doctor, it is something that can’t be avoided. In the end, asking for help does not make you less of a person. It will only make you stronger.
Follow your dreams
Nothing should hold you back from doing what you love. My mother always encouraged me to try, try, and try again. When it came down to choosing a college, she had my back every step of the way even if it meant going out of state. She has always accepted my crazy ideas to change my major, or apply to college as one major and change my mind halfway through. She often reminds me how much she misses teaching younger children and expresses her desire for me to follow my passions of some days wedding planning, others being a geneticist, and on some given days, fashion.
Everything happens for a reason
She has taught me that even when life doesn’t go the way you quite expect or want it to, there is a reason for it. It might take years to find out why you were placed in the situation but eventually, you will find your calling.