Relationship Reflection

Cooper Women
Sisters-in-law Diane, (Me), Katie, and Tracy, and niece Courtney

If there is one thing I have learned in my life it is the importance of wonderful relationships (and the importance of ending not-so-wonderful relationships).  I have learned that family is something you create by combining people who may share your blood and your name with others who share your spunk and your secrets.  I know how a little brother is one of the best parts of life, and how crucial sisters are to daily survival.  I have been lucky enough to experience a soul mate, and watch little versions of myself grow up into my future best friends.



With my little brother Kevin
Not quite twins, but not quite not.

Some relationships are completely effortless.  I have discovered that maintaining my close relationships with my brother and husband isn't difficult.  I see those relationships as simple and unconditional.  I think most of the credit goes to each of them- they are incredible men with strong minds and gentle hearts.  I often joke that the four of us- me, my brother, my brother's wife, and my husband- are just four siblings.  Some relationships feel that easy- as if we all came from the same place and are made of the same stuff.

With my best buddy, Mr. Cooper
 

Some relationships take work.  They become about acceptance, understanding, and give-and-take.  They require some letting go and some pushing back.  They show us who we really are and what parts of ourselves are true and what parts are false.  Not all relationships are worth the fight, but when we find those that are, we are incredibly lucky.

Found Sisters
Me, B, T, and KT

The characteristics of the different types of relationships I have enjoyed and endured have affected my professional life as well.  I have learned about empathy, support, strength, and compromise.  I work with strong women who have a passion for their work, and am inspired by them time and time again.  We have had to work hard at making our relationships productive and supportive, and in the process have formed partnerships.  Partnerships, to me, are relationships that have some purpose, and serve to get us from point A to point B without heartache or struggle.  A partnership should be a positive experience.  The partnerships I have encountered in the early childhood field have been some of the most enjoyable experiences in my professional life. 

With Colleen, coworker and friend.
 

Relationships are everything in our line of work, and I pride myself on the fact that I am part of several meaningful, productive relationships.