Vee’s Inspiration July 19, 2024
When I think about our young adults, I make the mistake and compare them to me when I was their age. I somehow use myself as the golden standard. Sure, I can rationalize and use a successful career as validation that the decisions and actions I made as a young adult led me here, but that would be a false positive. The reality is, they are different than I was, this world is different than it was when I grew up, and the challenges that they face are more permanent than the daily challenges I faced.I'm slowly understanding this reality and trying to balance it with the man I am today. It has been slow and not easy. Who would not want to help their young adults if they had the means to help? Thankfully, we can and have helped our young adults. When they were children it was our responsibility, as they become young adults, we feel it’s our duty. And that's where I usually get stuck. My parents and the village of family and friends that raised us taught us and showed us, help starts with self-help. I think that simple but powerful message has been diluted or even minimized over the years. There were times when I worked three jobs while trying to figure out how my life story would read. Times when I had no gas for hot water, and not enough money to pay full rent and could put only a couple of dollars of gas into my car so I could get to my three jobs. I ate at work because I didn't have food at home. No extra money, but I always had hope and optimism. I believed the example set by the village of people who raised me. Through belief and grace, things got better and my life story changed.
I had a conversation with one of our young adults last night. They were upset about the reality of life and how hard it can be. At first, I was annoyed because of what I thought was a victim mentality, but then they said, “I'm just upset because I created this and I'm to blame for the situation I put myself in and it’s tough to learn as you are going through it, but I have to learn” I told them I respected that they were holding themself accountable. I said, “get the cry out because it's ok to cry and let’s work on a plan so you can get out of this situation.” We’ll see if they follow the plan we figured out. I understand my role as a father is to always be understanding, but also to be the source of hope and optimism. There is a time when financial support a parent gives to their young adults has to end or be minimal, and I understand that time is different for different people and their situation. The emotional support and real-life perspective are something we as parents can offer until our journey ends.
I share my story, because we all go through similar situations personally and professionally, it's important to know you are not alone.
I'm thankful, I normally travel on Friday or Saturday. I decided a few weeks ago to return home Thursday. I woke up this morning to the grounding of many airlines due to an IT glitch. God is good.
My Day 19 of Being Great in July.
(No dog duty, I slept in until 5 am my wife took them out)
Woke up at 5: 00 am
Returned thanks to God
No workout - Rested
No reading - Reflected
Drink 100oz of water
Have a Great Day and Stay Safe!
Vee’s Inspiration @ Vecus.net