I was at a thing earlier this week, and a woman I have known for over 20 years although rarely see whose daughter is in my daughter’s grade, remarked on how well my youngest was doing. She noted that she has consistently found her marks to be on the distinction list these last years. How does she do it? She says. That is just amazing etc.
Something felt funny about this and I could not put my finger on it at the time although these comments came directly on the heels of her asking in a few different ways how often my children see their dad. I said I did not want to talk about that with her– *big smile*
She pushed again and I said ” Our life is very good” *bigger smile*
I got home and looked for the awards document and found her daughter’s name on the same list with the same high marks as mine.
And I thought there it is.
She was not saying “How does she do so well, consistently year after year?” After all her child does the same. It was “how does a child of a single mother do so well year after year ?”
Piss me $%^#ing off.
Thank- you I feel better now.
(there is every chance I am reading too much into this and hormonal. I am EXTREMELY obsessed with this stuff. See what we have, not what we don’t and don’t tell me what we can’t do)
yes- very fair comment and normally I am generous with remembering other’s struggles but this is my achiles, Beth. I can’t help it!
I understand why the woman’s comments would piss you off. However, I echo Laura’s thoughts. Maybe, just maybe, she is wondering if HER daughter would do as well if she had the courage to leave the miserable marriage she is (perhaps) currently living in. Maybe she was testing the waters?
I love that picture so much, Village… lovely girl. Lovely mum. It’s all good. xox
Thanks Sara- you and Laura would love each other! Next JORO!
it is never confusing to me why I love you so much.
Jules- I think my reaction was a non because of the slim chance that I misread this. If I had been certain I might have had a stronger reaction! I can growl like a lion protecting my cubs when I need to! But maybe less is more? Trying to remember this.
Laura is wise………..so wise. and that picture is awesome
you are right. that is exactly what she was saying. sometimes it is hard for people to understand how others seem happy, put together and competent when all the pieces (according to them) are not in place. What she really meant was, “If i was a single mom I would not be able to function, let alone having my daughter getting phenomenal grades”. This was her fear/weakness being transferred on to you. Her issue not yours. You dealt with it beautifully, as always.
I like this picture too, id and squeezed her butt right after. I am proud of her but so defensive on this matter.
your reaction was great! or non-reaction i suppose. maybe there’s a reason why you haven’t seen her in 20 years after all! >:-)
Nancy
Two thoughts.
1) I am hoping the amazement struck her because of the three years in a row with such grades. This is no small feat for females this age where sadly statistics show challenges.
2) Stunning photo and loving how gorgeous it is on so many levels.
Xo
i