Woman Who Have Mentored Me

7/26/2020

Steady ladies- I won't call you out on this blog. This is meant to show you all the much warranted gratitude for shaping me to be who I am.

Hello and welcome back!
In this week's edition of Yari's Corner, I will be attributing much of my life lessons from woman whom I have had the great pleasure of meeting and knowing. Some of these lessons were taught and then later registered, as I tend to be hard headed from time to time. Nevertheless, the lessons were learned and are greatly appreciated. I will be traveling deep in my memories so buckle up!

From Youth
It would be beneficial to start with my mother, as she was a huge influence on me and how I perceived a woman should be. Although not perfect, she raised 2 children on her own. She came to the states with us when my brother and I were age 3 and 5, with nothing more than one small carry-on luggage. I watched her as she went from being a cleaning lady at private homes, to being a certified recreation therapist.

This journey was never easy for her. She had to find child care for us both while she went to college to gain an education. At times when school was out, she would bring me and my brother to her classes and study groups. If I behaved, I would be able to sit in on those classes, take notes for her when she needed me to, and help her study.

This memory does make me smile, as it explains why I am so obsessed with educating myself, in and out of the classroom. As children, we usually learn from role play (among other things). We mimic the actions of an adult. So it does stand to reason that I would continue to educated myself and have an unbelievable work ethic. My mother sure did.

After finally graduating with her associates degree in therapy, she worked tirelessly to provide for my brother and I. I could not remember a day when my mother did not work. When she got laid off, or fired (she does have a temper- I told you she isn't perfect), she picked up odd jobs in order to support the household.

For this I thank you Mom.

You showed me that women should hold themselves to the same standard as a man, to be determined in my pursuits, and to never stop until you reach your goals.

While my mother taught me about work ethic and inner strength, it was my paternal grandmother who taught me about dedication, and family values. She has lived a life of servitude to her 3 boys and husband, teaching me that it doesn't really matter how much material you acquire in your lifetime. It is the quality of people that are there to share it with that matters.

My grandmother would be the one who taught me the value in putting family first and the joy that comes with devoting your whole being to those people you love. This is why I am thankful to you.

Early Adulthood
I had my first child shortly after I graduated high school. I worked odd jobs until my mother in law decided it was time I joined nursing school. Yes you read that right. My mother in law is the one that pushed my academic achievements when I was younger, in order to better provide for my family.

During my time in nursing school, I was able to meet some formidable instructors that impacted my life. I remember a specific instructor taught me to speak up and think in a critical manner in order to give patients the best medical outcome. I smile at this memory, thinking how she worked hard with me. It took me some time to fully understand the course concept. And at this time in my life, I was finding my footing in the world.

Contrary to popular belief, I was very passive, quiet, and reserved when I was younger. It wasn't until I became a nurse that I was able to advocate for those who could not advocate for themselves. Once in the nursing field, I was able to make some great friends that taught me that although being selfless is a great thing, I should also take the time to breathe and take care of myself. How would I be able to take care of others when I myself am not in good health?

Present
At the present time, my employer has given me the opportunity to meet some amazing females. Those of which I have had the great pleasure of knowing, and learning from.

Being a woman is a hard thing in the corporate world. I remember caring for a patient who once stated that when women ascend to leadership or powerful positions, it is not without a little bit of drama and emotional baggage. Of course, this patient was a male who was in his own right a materialistic wealthy man. However, his viewpoint put into perspective how some of our male counterparts view us in business.

The woman I have encountered have taught me lessons in leadership without knowing it. Some who understood that I have a little creativity, have used that in a beneficial way that furthers the company's progression. That is not to say that my content or ideas would automatically be approved and put to use. Those ideas would then be push for excellence, and for that I am highly grateful.

Unwavering toughness is necessary while working in a corporate office. This is especially true for females who have to combat the perceived notion that we are emotional and hard to work with. Those who have influenced me in this point of my life have taught me to keep my emotions in check and stick to what you believe is correct. Doing what is right when no one is looking is key to success.

And of course, there are some woman who understood the need I have to continue to educate myself. Not only did they continue to support it, they fed me information, and helped me achieve a greater understanding of things that I previously did not know. When the information was learned and put together, I was able to work within different areas of business flawlessly and efficiently. Thank you.

In short, I would like to thank those who continue to have a positive influence in my life. Without your insight, guidance, creativity, and support I would not be able to achieve the things in this life that started out as dreams. Thank you.

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Woman Who Have Mentored Me

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