I have just started reading the book “Mean Mom” by Peg Streep. She talks about how all mothers, at some point, are resentful of their daughters. I have one daughter and three daughters in love. I celebrate each of their victories with them. Two are making huge steps in personal growth. You go girls!!! One is a big success at work. She gets great reviews at work. Proud of you, girl! The last one I’m not close to but she is raising great kids, growing tons of house plants and also does great at work. I celebrate every growing plant and kid milestone. I just have never been prideful or restful. What is the point?
My biological mother, on the other hand, resented everything about me. Oddly, she never resented my work history. As far as she knew, I worked as a waitress most of my life until I became a teacher. I realize now, the reason I told her that was complex. I worked in a male centered world; I would have been a whore. If I had shared my successes I would have been lieing. If I had told her my job (a social worker basically), I would have been stupid to help people. By the time I left home at 13, I knew better than to share my life with her.
Today I celebrate my own successes. I work doing what I love, with my only concern being if I do a good job. I am a caregiver and I design and sew quilts. Sometimes, I help someone who is struggling with the health of a child. And I teach, every other week, one day in a homeschool co-op. I have never been so happy.
Joyful Healing, Dogs and Quilts 