Lady D Speaks

From time to time, I have asked my kids what they thought they wanted to be when they grow up. From our son we get a variety of answers, but all of them boil down to being a celebrity or famous ‘rich’ individual. Our eldest daughter is between wanting to be a policewoman or a teacher. And our five year old, well today she wants to be a race car driver. It’s fun to hear what their thinking of, and learn what they’re interested in. And apart wonders if that is what they’ll be doing.

Thinking back to when I was a kid I never said when I grow up I want to be a…But I did, however, know what I would never want to be. When my parents asked me if I wanted to be a doctor I’d reply, no way. I had no problem with blood, but it mixed with all the smells, sounds, and sickness. I just knew I wouldn’t be able to stomach it. Then my parents would ask, what about being a lawyer you like to argue (haha). But that was also a big fat no. I couldn’t imagine defending someone who I thought was guilty, or being responsible for putting an innocent person behind bars. How about a counselor, they’d suggest? OK, I’ve always been a good listener, but to hear depressing things all day long didn’t sound like a career I could be passionate about. Of course, I wasn’t judging those in these fields (they’re a better person than me) I just knew my limitations.

So it’s not too big of a surprise that I still don’t know what I want be when I grow up. Of course, I’m a wife and mother of four which is a full time job in itself. But when it comes to working outside the home (which I hope to do in the next few years) my interest jump from field to field. My wishlist for where I’d love to work would be (in no particular order) the USO, a radio station, the police department, at a school, or focusing on becoming a published writer. OK, I know the last one isn’t ‘outside’ the home, but give me a break.

When it comes to working for the USO, I’m open to doing just about any job. Greeting returning troops, packing and shipping their care packages, or helping support the families left behind. I can’t watch a troop coming home video without crying. Being away from your family and friends for such a long period seems extremely painful. And all the things they’ve experience and witness, how could I not want to help. For now though I donate funds and have sent a few small care packages.

The idea of working at a radio station seems fun, and I’m sure I’m glamorizing it. But I’m a people person, and love to talk. I could work in their marketing or event planning department. I’m organized and enjoying planning detailed events (ask my kids about their birthday parties, haha). And I think I could make a good DJ too. Of course, I’d want to be the one discussing issues, or sharing news. Come to think about it I maybe better on Talk Radio lol.

I’d also love to work for the police department as a clerk in their station. Helping the men and women who keep our city safe seems rewarding in itself. I have office experience so that wouldn’t be an issue, and I enjoy working with information not open to the public. OK, I’d feel a little important but at least I can admit it. Our local police department is always excepting volunteers, so I could start there and gain experience. It’s a lot of paperwork, fingerprinting, and waiting but it is possible that I could join their unpaid ranks within months.

Working for the school district would be like returning home. Before I had kids, I worked in that field for a few years. It’s one of the few jobs that allows you to working Monday-Friday exclusively. And the hours are, of course, reasonable because its the hours when the kids are there. But I know that I won’t actively be seeking employment here until all my kids are in school. Because if I’m being completely truthful the idea of leaving my baby every day to work with kids makes me feel bad. I know it maybe my mom ‘weirdness’ but I can’t justify leaving her to be with other kids.

And one of my favorites; becoming a writer. I became more serious about writing when I started college, and that passion has grown over time. I had always written as a hobby but didn’t start creating my manuscript until I was in my 20s. As much as I love to write I have yet to submit any of my works to a publishing house. I am a bit of a perfectionist so until I feel I have my best work in front of me no one else will lay their eyes on it. For now, I’m happy just having time to put my thoughts downs. I know being publish won’t be easy, and it may never happen but I can’t help but want to chase that dream. As they say sometimes the chase is half the fun.

In many ways, I think starting this blog is an extension of all those dreams. I’m writing, editing, reviewing, updating, and planning every day. I’m privileged in being able to share what causes and charities are close to my heart. I can motivate and encourage others from my experiences. And I can speak up for those who can’t say for themselves, which I think all writers should do.

My site is an extension of myself and therefore my voice. Sure, I’m not getting paid, and I’m far from fame, but when you’re happy doing something you love all the rest doesn’t matter. The point to this seemingly random post is that no matter your age, you should always have a dream that you’re working towards. And if you reach your goal, then set another one. Our children should see us working and challenging ourselves on a daily basis. And they should learn that you’re never too old to dream.

So what do you want to be when you grow up?