Relationship Reflection

Relationships are important they as they teach us so much about who we are.  It seems really true that certain peolpe are put into your life a reason.
 As we have discussed the importance of building relationships with families, I am taken back to a special relationship my family built with my cheerleading coach in middle school.  I made the cheer squad in 6th grade, but I had a difficult time with a ride home as I was from a single parent home and my mother was working most every evening.  my cheer coach always made sure I got home safe after every practice.  I was the captain of the cheer squad and she would always ask me after every practice if we accomplished anything that day. I heard it over and over, time after time. Well, when I reached high school, I was very disheartened that I didn't make the squad.  Of course, she was the first person I called, after calling my mom.  Speaking very calmly as she always did, she listened and later offered comforting words.  The next three years I did make the squad, and yes, she still supported me.  One thing I liked about her was the fact that she was always honest, if I wanted to hear it or not.
I graduated high school and went on to college. Yes, besides my mother and family, she continued to support and encourage me.  I later came home from college after completing two years.  With no degree, I later became married, had kids, and picked up a job to help support the family.  Three years ago, she began to enocurage me to return to college to complete my studies to obtain a degree.  She continued to motivate and encourage me, just as my family. I went back, completed the courses, and earned my degree.  I have her to thank, along with my family.
The relationship that she built with my entire familiy was wonderful.  She and I still have a relationship as I can truly say that because of her, I did accomplish something.  Years ago, I became tired of hearing those words every day day. But now, I am thankful for them.
Relationships are built solely on honesty and communication.  You have to have the constant communication and the honesty.  Being honest is so very important, even it it brings things we don't always want to hear.
As an early childhood educator, I want to build and maintain relationships with my families and students.  I want to keep the lines of communication open at all times. I also want to maintain a sense of honesty with them.