Friday, May 25, 2007

Misunderstood

For anyone who knows me and knows me well understands that I speak usually only when spoken to or when I feel strongly about the subject and have something to contribute to the conversation and accepts me.

For anyone who is a mere stranger searches for something more in me. And results in them perceiving me as cold, distant, snobby, and all other adjectives that associate with withdrawn. I am misunderstood.

Get to know me and you will find a girl who loves and trusts with her whole heart, mind, body, and soul. A person who strives to make people happy. A person of observance and patience. A girl who finds that the people she meets are supposed to be in her life for a reason.

I have been blessed to have people in my life who have touched my heart and opened my soul.

Grandpa Williams, you have brought me such joy with your compassion for animals. I know I have learned this from you. I love you!

Grandma Williams, my angel, has taught me acceptance. She loved all and thought of them as family. She willingly opened her house and heart. I miss you and know that you watch and understand. I love you!

Grandpa Greulach has the greatest advice. "Stay happy" he says whenever we part. Your loves makes me happy and makes me believe that I am strong. I love you!

Grandma Greulach, wise is she. You have a remarkable memory of your life and the lives of your children and grandchildren. One day I will write my music. Thank you for the inspiration. I love you!

Dad-we are kindred spirits. You are the man in my life. You always seem to have the answers, although we at times don't see eye to eye. You never say no to anyone who needs help and offer help to all. Among the many things that you have taught me, these will always make me smile: Never let your gas tank get below a 1/4, oil change every 3000 miles, you can't pitch to Pujols, and definitely can't dribble between two players. I love you!

Mom-the woman I aspire to be. You told me that I broke the mold. I think I'll find it. I would be happy to be half the woman that I have seen in you and grandma. You are strong and beautiful and taught me to go, be, and do. You're unselfishness shines! I love you!

Scot-my beloved brother. You told me that I have paved the way for your success. You are loved by all. Remembered by all. Respected. Envied. You have taught me to show people the person you know. The person I am. I'm learning! Always remember...the times we've shared. I love you!

Lori-my whole sister, you have taught me trial and error. To try things on. Don't be afraid to let go and to be let go of those that don't fit. I admire your strength and your fearlessness. I love you!

Jill, my new sister-in-law. From one self-proclaimed black sheep to another. You are one of a kind. Your sense of humor is something to be admired. You have taught me a new vocabulary. To be different is to be unique. I find it hard not to smile when you're around. I am happy that you are a part of my life. I love you!

Nikki, my soulmate, hold's on to what she finds true. Nikki you have taught me many things, most of all courage. To be who you are and to speak what you know. Your character is true. I love you!

Melissa, my dancing queen. You have taught me hope. My life will piece together. I will one day find my fairy tale. You went for your dream and found it. I love you!

Emily, my carefree mom. You have taught me what love is supposed to feel like. Your wit and charm are magnetic. Your patience in life is my relief. You and Nathan have made me feel like family. I love you both very much. Thank you!

Steve, my live for the moment friend. You have touched my life. There's a reason we met and became a part of each other. You share with me my fascination of music and nature. You have taught me to experience life and that I CAN do it alone. Music is an unspoken ispiration and way of life to us. Keep sharing your gift. I wish you all the best wherever you may be and whatever you may be doing.

To my fellow teachers: I continue to learn from you each day. Your passion for teaching is inspiring. We are so lucky to do what we do and believe in it. I feel fortunate to be surprised everyday. The future is lead by us. Our hearts touch, our words light a fire, our hands lead.

To everyone: take a moment to look at the world around you and what it has to offer. Slow down and stand still. Smile. Touch. Listen. Look. Dream. Teach.

I'm learning to smile often, to touch lives and to listen with an open mind; no words on my tongue, to look at the beauty we have been given, to dream and to make it happen, and to teach what I have been taught.

Invest in Self-Love!!

7 comments:

Jen Barney said...

HOLY MACACORNOLI! I am blown away- This piece is so touching. Thank you for sharing your thoughts about who you are. You are truly amazing. Thank Mandy

Sarah Amick said...

Mandy you always surprise me and I love the way you mull things over. Sometimes I love sharing things with you and watching you take it all in, a few days later you share your thoughts so openly and precisely. I wish my words were as precise and not so spewish (word?). You are truly a teacher of children and adults. Thank you for being you.

Jen Barney said...

Hey- You have just been tagged by A Teacher's Life. Go to my site to check it out.

Sarah Amick said...

You have been tagged by:
amicksarticles.blogspot.com
check it out. It's a new meme!

Al Manning said...

Mandy you are a person that I am coming to know more and more each day and I am enjoying the journey we have been on. I celebrate the person you are-you can be funny, intense, passionate,shy, thoughtful, extremely caring and private. I appreciate the thought that goes into everything you do. You have been extremely fortunate to have family and friends that have touched your life so deeply. I was touched by the way you shared them with us. I really appreciate your vulnerability in writing "Misunderstood". Know that there are people out there that care and want to be a part of the journey you are on and appreciate you for who you are! You warm my heart!

Kathy Douglas said...

Mandy,
I just now found your blog. I must say I am one of your people who have misunderstood you. To me you are this cool teacher who always has it so together. Your children are always so wonderful going through the halls. You wave your magic over them and they follow you and love you at the same time. Thank you for being brave enough to open yourself with this blog. I can't wait to know you better!

Kirsten said...

Your thoughts are captivating. I love to just reread what you wrote on this particular post. You inspired me to write something called Wrapped in Hugs and Kisses. I don't think it even touches what you did here. I know where you are coming from. I am often perceived as a snob. I just like to sit back and get to know people by listening and watching before I spill my guts to them. Snobs? I think we are not!