Unexpected Praise

This afternoon my daughter’s 3rd grade teacher called me personally to tell me how proud she was of my daughter’s progress this year, and the progress that they made as a class. As a mom and teacher, I appreciate this.

When I informed her that she was with her father this week, and that I could email him the details of our conversation. As a parent of children of divorce and a teacher to children of divorce, I know that teacher’s often expend more energy and time on these children. It’s the nature of the job. That’s why I had made the offer. Here she was giving of her time. She laughed and said that she’d be calling him as well. This is commitment. As a teacher, I’m impressed by this. 

Then she said that me and my ex should write a book on how to be divorced and dysfunctional, yet very functional. She said that my daughter was so well-adjusted while living in two homes whose parents couldn’t stand each other, and that she was very impressed. I had no idea that we were doing so well. Here I had been thinking the whole school year that she thought me careless and failing. I tried, but it never seemed to be good enough. As a mom, I am in awe.

 

I’m in awe at life. The way that sometimes what we think is reality is only our singular perception of a world view. I’m in awe that she called and said, “Job well done.” I’ve just remembered the joy of getting a sticker.

Thank you, Ms. Clair.

Job Well Done 👍