Show Up...
Emily Williams Knight, Ed.D.
President & CEO “Always smile when you see someone, it might be the only smile they see that day”.
This week marked the end of an era for one of our twins. After devoting 14 years of her life to basketball, she walked off the court for the very last time. It wasn't just a difficult moment for her, but for our entire family. ?
As we drove home from the game, I struggled to console her and encourage her to reflect on her accomplishments while looking ahead to the next chapter of her life. Then, she said something that hit me right in the heart: "Mom, one of the things I'll miss most is looking up in the stands and seeing you cheering me on."
It was a stark reminder of the sacrifices we've made as a family. So many times, I've had to travel, sometimes halfway across the world, and race back, exhausted, just to make it back in time for a game. I've sat in the bleachers, jet-lagged and exhausted, just to be there for her. It was also a painful reminder of the countless games I missed and the times she looked up and couldn’t find me cheering her on.
Those words from her, on that drive home, brought on a realization that while my motto as a working mom had always been “I won’t make everything, but I will strive to never miss the big things” was self-created to protect my heart, to ease my guilt, and to give me comfort when I had to say the words “I’m sorry sweetie, I won’t be able to make it” to one of my girls. What was awakening in me was the difficult acceptance that, everything to our children is indeed - “the big stuff”.
Transitioning into an empty nest next year will undoubtedly bring its own challenges. But one thing I have learned on my journey is that as working parents, finding balance is a myth. Instead, we must strive to blend our personal and professional lives in a way that allows us to cherish every precious moment with our children.
So, I urge you, in the coming weeks and months, take a step back and reassess your priorities. Make a conscious effort to seize every opportunity to be there for your children. Because before you know it, they'll be off on their own, and all you'll have left are the memories of those car rides, the moments of struggle, and the celebrations you shared together. You will never ask yourself, “why didn’t I take more work trips and schedule more zoom calls”. From one working parent to another, just show up, I promise you won’t regret it.
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7 个月This had me reliving the same time in my own life. Emily Williams Knight, Ed.D. You and Alec havd Sadly parenting is as much about letting go gracefully as much as your heart craves holding on to them. Your kids learned the importance of balancing hard work and living a good life. ??
Principle Field Services Sales Representative at Ellucian
8 个月Emily your words “I won’t make everything, but I will strive to never miss the big things,” create the best path for kids. Last summer my son was at the Scardino's in the UK since their daughter is his godmother. They were saying what an amazing Mom Marjorie was and how she was the BEST parent. Clearly, Marjorie did not make everything since she was on a plane for Pearson 300 days a year but she made all the big things, and her 3 kids are all successful with families of their own. I'm glad you were able to give your girls the independence to be successful on their own but know you were and will be always rooting for them.
Lead Motivator at EatWalkLearn
8 个月As my daughter reached high school graduation, I thought to myself that she'd no longer need me as much and transitioning was happening. But now, more than ever, the decisions in college are harder than ever, and she needs mom advice more often (even if she doesn't ask for it.) My role as mom has changed, but it's not less, it's much more. I used the think they younger they are, the more they need you. It's the opposite. Cheers to you Emily. I still remember the day I had confirmed with you the rumors you were pregnant. You replied back with a grin and two fingers. Twins!
Independent Business Owner
8 个月So true. I did see most activities but with 3 children in activities,I missed a few things. You do the best you can.
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8 个月The balancing act of a working mom takes tremendous effort especially from those who genuinely have the heart and desire to be PRESENT and involved in their children’s life, yet have passion to make a difference in our world and grow as a professional. I stand up and applaud you and so many other working moms out there! ????