As part of my Unravelling e-course, the assignment this week is about The Roles I Play. The assignment is in two parts: write down as many roles as you can think of that you play in your life; and, select two favourite roles and write one paragraph of why you enjoy each role and what it means to you.
The Roles I Play (in no particular order):
Mother, Travel agent, Logistics coordinator, Permission giver, Bartender, Floral arranger, Secretary, Chauffeur, Keeper of Secrets, Bank Machine, Cheerleader, Motivational Speaker, Shoulder to Cry on, Masseuse, Nurse, Psychologist, Laundress, List Maker, Collector, Story Reader, Entrepreneur, Purchase Manager, Mentor, Negotiator, Efficiency Expert, Gardener, Jailer, Plumber, Artist, Handy-man, Landscaper, Lifeguard, Tutor, Supporter, Cleaning Lady, Teacher, Weather Predictor, Safety Expert, Architect, Volunteer, Guidance Counselor, Wardrobe Manager, Sister, Camp Coordinator, Friend, Cook, Judge, Partner, Hairstylist, Disciplinarian, Mona Vie Distributor, Scrapbooker, Equipment Manager, Daughter, Blogger, Decorator, Photographer, Writer, Accountant, Diplomat, Shoulder to Cry On
My Favourite Roles and Why:
So, I'm cheating a bit here because my favourite roles are photographer, writer, scrapbooker and, of course, mama. You see and read plenty about those particular roles, so I thought I'd stretch myself and look at some other roles I enjoy.
LAUNDRESS: Laundry is always a work in progress. You’re never really done. There is always something else that needs to be completed; but, as far as chores go, nothing is more satisfying than doing the laundry. Inevitably the three wire baskets are overflowing with all manner of dirty clothes, towels and sheets. Even when I think I’m done, I’m just kidding myself. I’m wired to enjoy long-term projects, though I do like a bit of change, and laundry seems to fill that need for consistency and change. Oh, and control: I am very particular about folding and no one in the house can do it, except me. Laundry is me: ever changing but always the same.
MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER: With four kids in five years, (now ranging in age from 13 to 8) it is my job to set the tone and keep them all on track all of the time. This requires a lot of energy; a lot of motivation. I find joy in finding, and using, the right “carrot” to motivate each child. They are all so different from each other. Some days it’s frustrating but most days it is a wonderful challenge. I always want them to give 100% to whatever endeavour they’ve taken on at any given time as simple as reading a book or as complex as being a member of a team. They choose all of their own activities and I never want them to feel disappointed thinking “if only”. There is no time or energy for “if only” in this house. It is one of my favourite jobs to have them focused and always improving. Moving forward.