Reflecting on Building Relationships

Because humans are inherently social, our happiness and well-being depends greatly on the relationships we build with others. Building positive and healthy relationships with the people we interact with leads to a happy and satisfying life. (Handel, 2011) I am blessed to have several relationships in my life that are extremely important to me.

My first positive relationship began over fifty years ago when I came into the world as the seventh of my parent’s nine children. Over the years they have shown me the true meaning of what happy and healthy relationships consists of. They have role modeled the benefits of collaboration and taught me that when we build positive relationships, they can influence more than just our immediate social community. “When you make a positive connection with someone else, that person is more motivated to make positive connections with other people. Our actions and relationships, therefore, are part of a much larger chain of events that are what influence society as a whole.” (Handel) This is truly one of the best lessons I have ever learned.  

I met my husband, Steve more than thirty years ago when we were both student-athletes in college. He loves to make me (and everyone else) laugh and is good at keeping things light hearted. We have two children, Steven (age 27) and Lindsey (age 26). Family is extremely important to Steve and I know from experience that he would do anything for us. Exactly one year ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Because of the size of the tumor and the fact that cancer cells were found in my lymph system, I had to undergo chemotherapy and radiation for four months. Steve was by my side the entire time, and I know that if he could have taken the treatment for me, he would have. Sometimes I think illness is as difficult for the family as it is for the patient. I’m happy to say that I am healthier than ever, and we are back to enjoying our favorite activities once again! Having Steve by my side has definitely shown me the benefit of working on our relationship.

I don’t get to see my son as often as I like, but he is only a text away. He lives in LA and travels the world constantly in the music business. He has always loved adventure and lives life to the fullest. I love to listen to his stories and visit him as often as I can.

Lindsey is an amazing source of happiness and inspiration to me. She just finished her first year as a special education teacher in a low-income school district and wouldn’t trade her job for anything. She loves working with her students and families and is finding true meaning in her life as a young adult. Lindsey is definitely making a significant difference in the world and I couldn’t be any prouder of her. We are both working on our masters and encourage each other constantly to achieve our goals.

The relationship I have with my preschool staff is extremely positive. There are five amazing women (all related) who definitely add to the quality of my program. Luisa, Magda, Susana, Jasmine and Catalina shine with an enthusiasm for learning and unconditional love for the children we care for every day. We enjoy spending time with each other so our work environment is pleasant. I believe the children feel the positive energy and everyone benefits!

All of these relationships compliment my ability to work with children and their families as an early childhood professional. When children are surrounded by adults who model positive and healthy relationships, they learn how to build these relationships in their own lives. 

References

Handel, S. (2011) The Benefits of Creating Positive Relationships, Retrieved from: http://theemotionmachine.com/the-benefits-of-creating-positive-relationships