Thinking about my daily environment and the different types of support mechanisms that help me to function a few key things come to mind; which I have outlined below. Without these supports, I truly believe I would be lost and not the person I am today. These supports have helped me to realize things about myself that I could have not done on my own. I feel the most important thing I have learned through my supports is humility.
Music and photography are my saving grace, I live for music; my iPod is a big support. I am able to release many emotions through listening to music; my iPod helps with emotional support. I also use my iPod during my strenuous workout routines; it serves as my own personal cheerleader. I also have my iPod in hand when I am spending time on creative writing. My camera serves as my source of meditation and escaping from the world we live in. It also serves as a means of speaking to others who differ from me.
My parents are my best friends; I am both happy and lucky to say I have the both of them at the top of my support system. Both of my parents offer different types of support that enable me to continue to grow, learn and develop both as a woman and also as an active citizen in my community.
Southern and Pryde, my dogs serve as a support factor. My dogs actually help remind me of the importance of putting others before your own self. They also help support me during emotional times in my life. My dogs where by my side during Hurricane Katrina, the death of both of my Grandmothers, but they have also been there for me during graduations, birthdays and other academic achievements.
A challenge that I chose to imagine is being the teenager in high school who is the primary caregiver of her younger siblings due to extenuating circumstances. I would want the support of caring, responsible adults/advocates in my world. I would want the support from my mature peers; I would want the support of my employer and educators who understands my circumstances being both a primary caregiver and a student. I would need some type of outlet for stress such as photography, yoga or therapy. I would also need some type of spiritual support.
Through these supports, one would hope I would understand challenges are put in the front of us only to make us stronger and eventually things would become manageable. These supports would help me to understand a positive attitude is the best thing to have in difficult situations. Without these supports, the impact on my life would be grim; I would more than likely fall victim to a failed society.
Tasha,
ReplyDeleteI think it is wonderful that you included your dogs as your supports. Dogs are wonderful companions, never judging, always happy to see you. Many pets have a healing and healthy effect on their human companions. They work well as service animals for some of these reasons. I'm glad that you value that support.
Tasha,
ReplyDeleteYour imaginary challenge was my life at age 19 although I was not in high at the time I was a sophomore in college and the responsibility of taking care of my younger sister, due the sudden death of my mother who was a single parent. Life for me at that time was very overwhelming to say the least. Reading your post allowed me to reflect back on just how far I have come. Thanks for your posting I think it good to remember even if it is a sad occasion.
Tasha,
ReplyDeleteYour challenge is a reality for many teenagers. I couldn't imagine having such responsibility at such a young age, and admire those who do it. I think you listed all of the things someone would want from this. Understanding from others would be the biggest, in my opinion.