A Sense of Accomplishment

Published on Monday, June 11, 2012 by Katherine

This is day 3,076 in the 30-day blog writing challenge. Today’s topic is “a sense of accomplishment.”

Our school district has much to be desired. There are gangs, fights and metal detectors in our area’s schools. My children would be chewed up and spit out within a week of attending any of these local gems.

For fourteen years (SO FAR!), I have sent my kids to private Catholic schools. I spent the night in a parking lot to get my first child in one of the two morning slots of pre-k.

I have given up new clothes, furniture, dinners out, haircuts and oh so much more. There have been tears, headaches, laughter and pain. Fights about homework, worry about grades, anguish about money.

I prayed to God that my oldest could attend the local Catholic high, knowing I could never afford the tuition. I found ways to get financial aid, help from the school, and was blessed to have family that paid as well.

This week the moment arrived. My first-born graduated from high school. A high school that he will always look back on with fondness and pride.

When they called my son’s name, I held my breath, released and felt a huge sense of accomplishment.

When my children are grown, I know they will realize just how much I’ve sacrificed to give them a better life. But I don’t want recognition. I only ask for three things in return. Their success, happiness and good health. Oh, and an old nasty truck accompanied by a bass boat wouldn’t be so bad either.

One down, two more to go!