Today’s tip: FOLLOW THE WATER!!!!
She was born at a time when women could not vote, study the careers they wanted, or in general, make the life choices they thought to be better for themselves. Some years later, with a revolution in between, laws changed, women vote was allowed, and things -including health for women, continued improving. However, there were unwritten laws that still hindered her full development. She wanted to be an attorney, but that was a “men’s career,” so she became a teacher. Her students love her, in the present tense, even after decades of retirement; her first son had the privilege to become an attorney thanks to her support; she was fulfilled. But that was a compromise, not her choice.
She wanted to marry her first love and foreign sweetheart, but that was anathema at the time, so she married her College classmate but, after many years of divorce, she went on to fulfill her dream and reconnected with her first love. She was expected to be a Stay Home Mom; instead, she went on to establish a Happy Home, built a beautiful house, and became the Bread Winner for her household.
I did not know it at the time, and I am not sure she has ever heard about the so-called ‘philosophy of water,’ but last night, I realized this was what she practiced precisely -and continues to practice- throughout her life. Like water, she is humble, determined, an enabler, and she will not stop in the face of obstacles. Like water, she embraces and embodies harmony, not conflict. Finally, like water, she is open to change, regardless of how many birthdays she celebrates.
She is my mom, and today is her birthday. I miss not being able to give her a huge hug, but I am very grateful to celebrate her with you. I -humbly- invite you to consider doing what my mom does instinctively if not consciously, always asking yourselves: what would water do? May this serve as a tribute to your mom, wherever she is, and the moms amongst us. They are the best!