Category: lifestyle

Adult Education Resources, Community, Education, Gifts, health, health care, humanity, Legal, lifestyle, Mental Health, motivation, Non- Profit, Parenting, planning, support group, wellness

The Persecution of Parenting

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When it comes to parenting, there is not one manual, book of rules, or even clues as to achieving the “Best Parent” award. Being the best is non- existent as “the best”  is so abstract that it is impossible to accurately define. Such a premature conception only sets unrealistic standards and relevancy to others based on individual life circumstances and family situations. There is no doubt that every parent is guaranteed to face some of the most difficult challenges throughout the path of parenthood. With this, having to make the the toughest, yet best decisions for the time being. Most often those decisions are the hardest because it requires a sacrifice for something else. For example, losing something for the sake of another.  Sometimes even giving up one necessity in desperation of another that may have a slightly higher priority for the time being.  This can be a devastation in itself. There are battles we have within as these experiences may come, and perhaps we have with others when it comes to the view of the art of parenting.

Over the period of my time as a parent, I have not only faced my own challenges, but I have witnessed some of the hardest battles from that of others. I can tell you that as a parent, I would never give another parent unsolicited advice on how to deliver their tools to their children. I had no information to their truth nor the knowledge of the tools they had or even those they may have lacked. It is not right to judge ones ability to deliver anything less or more than I could my own. For the life of one family is impossible to identify with for another. Within one individual, they are unique in their own self. The role of a parent, no matter the form, is uniquely based on life experiences, education, cultural background, support system, lack of support system, unexpected life events, loss, gain, and the list goes on. Our individual journeys are so different that the meaning of the title role of parent will not serve as the same meaning for all. However, the defining language of parenting can be described as the ultimate sacrifice and love. A language that will take you beyond what you can ever imagine being capable of. A language that only a parent can understand, but in the same to serving respect and support to another rather than placing judgment on a situation you truly are not capable of experiencing first yourself.

One should never judge another parent based on unforeseen circumstances. For instance, an economic status change. Where a parent could have been newly widowed or divorced. One leaving domestic abuse or a a two- parent household losing a job or making a career change. What about the single parent that is going back to school for a higher education and opportunity for brighter future for their child. The parent who became ill or disabled or even one that of a child. Consider the parents whom are living outside of an area of their core support, or the many who have very little to no support in place. Unfortunately when there are life changes or an occurrence of events, it can truly shake up the entire world of a household. For those families who are already lacking resources, this can be extremely altering and can be a very difficult road to recovery. For those who are blessed to have room for cushion, understand that your reality can be subject to change at anytime, but most importantly cannot be compared to that of others either. However, the unfortunate reality for those lacking is the unjust biases coming from society and more-so in the family court room. The lack of understanding and the remote ability to do so leaves for wrongful judgements and accusations. Closed- ended biases are only closed doors for those trying to prevail. When there is such a large discrepancy within one population to another, the lower of the denominator is often the sufferer and victim of oppression. What should be considered as logic, is instead a shunned truth. Where there is law, there are loopholes. What should be served morally, is done so righteously and unjust.

There are so many special circumstances in life that the world cannot count alone. Some cases for families can be more extreme or rare to see than others. Most factors uncontrolled but also unfairly controlled by another. The empty- minded norms that are unrelated from one family to another. The temporary altering circumstances as well as universal laws and rules written do not fit the mold of every family, which ultimately are under-served. When it comes to packaging a family, there is never a one size fits all. There are life changing disabilities short term and long term, career layoffs, going back to school to get a higher education, perhaps going to school to get an education for the brighter future for your family. Where these factors bare the truth of a portion of our community, all of these require sacrifice and enforce suffering. What should be remembered in these circumstances, this does not make one an incompetent parent and certainly does not make one a bad one either. There is a small percentage of people who have been very fortunate to not experience a traumatic event or loss. However, it is seen more within this portion of society, especially within a public system as the most biased when it comes to deciding what is best for a child. The majority of time where one parent is vulnerable, they are most often oppressed by society and the justice system. Even found to be pulled into an unnecessary battle at the expense of their child, job, and education path. Where the things that served as the climbing ladder to their future, is now taken away before their feet. How is this fair by any means and where does this benefit the person that matters the most- the child?

Where there are so many parents who may sacrifice tremendously to hold a job (sometimes multiple), juggling a full time school schedule in order to reach the desired future for their family, it can be misconstrued to instability. Sacrifice does not make one unstable, but in the long run, more secure.  Sometimes the boat of life is shaken when there is unexpected winds and storms, but as long as we are pulling the ropes where we need, we are able to keep sailing smoothly along to our destination. However, if one is continuously stricken by lightening throughout their journey, it makes it very difficult to maintain the momentum of the sail. Most often losing and sacrificing even more than before during the time of recovery.

To all parents (no matter the form) who are facing some of the biggest challenges and searching for the face of hope, remember that you are doing the absolute best under each and every one of your unique circumstances. This is what defines you as a parent. Keep pushing through those challenges and take it as your strength training. You need to keep building for your children as they only need you, and the best version that you can be. At the end of the day they are hugging and loving you. Not the size of the house they live in, the abundance of toys, the car they ride in, or the empty space they stand when they are not with you. Nothing in this world can compete with the love between a child and their parent, especially when it is the biggest love they know. At the end of the day, the only thing that matters is the Quality time and love that they receive. This is not something that can be given to them by anyone else. Therefore the persecution of parenting is not justified.

In the times of distress, just keep reminding yourself that bettering yourself for the sake of your child’s future is the most selfless and loving act that a parent can do for them. A role model who teaches work ethic, determination, strength, compassion, understanding and truly the greatest love for their child. In the times of adversity it is the easiest for anyone to give up and surrender, but it doesn’t move you forward and only pushes you further back than where you started. That alone does not bring goodness. Giving up is never the best choice. Only rest when needed. Keep your eye on the prize as it is closer to your reach than you think. There is so much more to your journey than what may appear. Something much larger than you and is only realized when you are determined to go above and beyond to to have it within your grasp.

Love and support others where you can during the times of adversity. Share your stories and offer them as a resource. Place no judgement on another but only a loving hand over those in need. Unity with community!

-Amanda Marie Wilkinson

Adult Education Resources, Community, Education, finance, health, health care, humanity, lifestyle, Mental Health, Non- Profit, support group, Uncategorized, wellness

When your health is in a crisis, your mind doesn’t have to go there! Resources for low income healthcare needs.

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I spent years of my life without healthcare insurance. As a child, I was mostly on medicaid with my mother and when I was a teenager and young adult, I was working multiple jobs to get by and put myself through school. I couldn’t afford a private healthcare policy and I didn’t qualify for any assistance, as well as my part time job(s) didn’t offer plans. For years I managed to stay as healthy as possible and often paying high out of pocket costs going to see healthcare providers, dentists, and emergency care. When I had a life altering accident, the medical costs alone almost took the life out of me.

I have spent years researching different insurance companies and comparing the cost of private policies. This would be for anyone that is a student and not eligible to be on a parents healthcare policy, single, family with lower tax bracket, part time employment, single with low income but not eligible for medicaid or government assistance. I speak on the behalf of anyone who is in any one of these categories because I have been in each one myself. When I was enrolled in college for the first time, I was attending community college. The school did not provide an option to receive health insurance. I had two part time jobs- which neither of them provided healthcare with my part time status, I didn’t qualify for medicaid, and I was an independent living student, and didn’t have parents who could cover me either.

Flash forward a few years and I transferred to my University. They too, did not provide healthcare coverage as it was a private school. Unfortunately having healthcare insurance was mandatory for my degree plan as I was studying nursing at the time. It was required to attend clinical training in the hospital. During this time I was a full time nursing student, on every scholarship and grant out there, new mother, and feeling very frustrated over the years because I always felt that I fell into a gap where I was never qualified for anything either way I pulled. I managed to make just enough money where I couldn’t apply for medicaid or any other healthcare assistance program, but at the same time, I wasn’t in the financial position to be able to afford a private healthcare policy until I was finished with school and had a big girl job.. Makes sense right?

I was constantly researching and over the years, between the healthcare institutions, clinics, and organizations I have either worked or volunteered for, have found a couple of the best and affordable solutions for other individuals and families that may also have fallen through the cracks of this population gap! I understand the immense amount of stress it can be on one individual when it comes to health, medical bills, and a lack of resources! I also know that it is magnified when it comes to a family! Therefore, I will like to share with you a few resources that I have found extremely helpful over the years. You can check out and share for yourselves and others! It may not be for everyone, but if there is a way I can help someone, I am happy to be able to do so!

Oh and please, if there is anything else comparable on the market to what I have to present, please contact me to share!!! As a full disclosure: I am not by any means selling a product, hired by any insurance company or marketing for any company or organization. Every city and state differs from services that are available to your local community. I am only sharing the information that I have personally found that worked for me in particular circumstances and I believe many can relate. Always research and follow up on any changes that can occur with the different programs, as well as research the public and private healthcare programs and resources that are within your local community for information and further assistance. I am only speaking on a very narrowed scale but valuable information that can possibly direct you to resources that may alleviate your healthcare crisis!

For Private insurance: United Healthcare Golden Rule insurance Company is not restricted on enrollment dates. I was able to get coverage within 24 hrs of enrolling. I have found that their individual and family healthcare coverage plans are much lower than any other private insurance policy I personally have researched. As rates change according to what you may need to add to your personalized plan, please call or go online for a quote. Everything changes so don’t quote me!!! However, I was paying less than $100 a month for PPO medical insurance and dental. Adding my child to my plan was only a very small increase to my monthly bill. Oh and low deductibles!!!!

Go online at: https://www.uhone.com

or Call toll free at: 1800- 657- 8205 or 1800- 273- 8115

Anyone at anytime can shop around and compare private insurance policy quotes and choose to go with any insurance company that they find suitable for their individual needs. I only share from my experiences to give the chance to help those who are looking for resourceful options.

I understand that even $100 a month can go very far for some and may not be able to quite afford a private healthcare plan. For some they may manage to get by with seeing a doctor once a year and they bite the costs. Here are a couple of options that I have found as well and utilized before I was insured with a private policy.

Some of the big Hospitals and Healthcare Institutions have clinics that are branched off to help those patients with healthcare issues that are not suited for an emergency room visit just to be seen. These clinics that provide the same quality professionals as the Hospital are able to give affordable out of pocket care to be seen and treated if you do not have healthcare insurance. Every city and community differs but research your city’s public and private healthcare institutions and verify with those that may provide extra care as this. For Example: Memorial Hermann Hospital is the largest Non- for Profit Hospital in Southeast Texas. They have branched into the Memorial Hermann Neighborhood Health centers providing very affordable healthcare and access to Primary care physicians and specialists tending to every healthcare need. Before I was insured, I was able to see a primary care physician for as little as $50.00 a visit, receive medications, have examinations and lab testing done for a little more depending on the service needed. Depending on your healthcare need and how often, it changes but it was a lifesaver! Especially if you are a patient who has a medical condition that requires daily medications and requires continuous physician care. Beats hundreds of dollars in private physician costs and thousands in laboratory testing fees if you are uninsured!

For Self Pay (Uninsured patients) Memorial Hermann Neighborhood clinic

Go online at: https://communitybenefit.memorialhermann.org/healthcare-resources/neighborhood-health-centers/

For those who reside where this healthcare facility may not be available, contact your local non- for profit hospitals and private hospitals to see if there is a similar service that may be accessible to you through their institution.

If you are Homeless and not receiving any other healthcare assistance or low income family/individual (uninsured self pay):

In Harris County of Houston, TX, for those who are homeless or in low income to poverty level, there is the Harris Health care system. A system govern-mentally funded and operated. They provide healthcare financial assistance based on your income. You can apply for the GOLD CARD which provides financial assistance for healthcare coverage and is less strenuous to apply than Medicaid.

Please visit: https://www.harrishealth.org/ and https://www.harrishealth.org/access-care/patient-eligibility#tabGroup14 for eligibility requirements.

Gold card: Please go online: https://www.familyhouston.org/harris-health-the-gold-card-how-to-apply/

Gold card Online application: https://hchd-gold-card-application-form.pdffiller.com/

For homeless medical and dental services in Houston, TX :

Houston Healthcare for Homeless- //www.homeless-healthcare.org/ this non profit institution caters to the homeless population in providing access to medical physicians, nurse practitioners, and dentists for their medical and dental needs.

For all other cities, please check to find any institution in similarity, private or non- profit such as the Harris Health system and Healthcare for Homeless. Every community operates differently and resources will differ as well. These are pointers on where to start your research on a local level for these very specific needs.

For vaccinations I have found that there are some local church charity’s that provide little to no cost flu vaccinations. Again, check your local community. You can also visit your local pharmacy for certain vaccinations and testing that are low cost for those who are self pay. For those insured, you will need to refer to your insurance policy for fees and costs.

For urgent and minor care: There is also the option for 24 hour emergency clinics. However, the costs may not be much different than self pay out of pocket costs just as you would find going into a Hospital emergency room.

I hope any of this information is helpful! It helped me tremendously when I was uninsured or circumstantially on a  lower income bracket. Some of us will have special circumstances and with this, fall through the gap of affording the adequate care they need, especially in crisis. Through some of these services I have found, I was able to help others in my community that were facing some of these difficult challenges. It is never fair to be left hanging when it comes to our health. Our health is needed to live, but the care we receive gives us the ability to live well.

Always, Always share with others where you can. Please contact me if you have other resources to share! I personally am limited to my experiences, but want to be able to share with as many people and different populations that may come across this, as much as possible! Thank you for helping me help others! I encourage you all to never stop doing so!

Unity with Community!

-Amanda Marie Wilkinson

 

 

 

Adult Education Resources, Community, Education, Gifts, health, humanity, lifestyle, Mental Health, motivation, planning, support group, Uncategorized, wellness

When you have been crushed, it doesn’t mean the core of who you are was too!

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Hotwheels

July 5, 2007 was my larger than life lesson that continued to take me through everyday that moved me forward. Not one day that will ever be taken for granted.

On this day I was not in a car, but was walking out of my old office building when the 1800 pound awning collapsed on top of me. I was the only person who was trapped and blocking the entire front of the building. I remained conscious yet breathless. I remember hearing the loud screeching of screams coming from a colleague and I remember the frantic of others trying to pry heavy metal and debris from atop of my back as I was slumped forward in the parking lot.  Many men tried to pull me from under and I couldn’t speak nor move. My entire body was numb and perhaps the lack of sensation was my blessing from what I would endure soon enough. When the fire department and ambulance arrived I heard the saws chopping away what seemed like 25 feet in length of heavy metal, wood, and lighting. I remember as soon as I was placed inside the ambulance my body let me know to the degree of its injury. As soon as we scurried off my left leg was twisted and flopping around. I was screaming from the most unbearable pain I could ever feel in my life. I was begging the medic to hold my leg and I recall his response that he could not do so to reduce any further risk of injury. Prior, I asked a friend who worked with me and who was also at the scene to come with me to the hospital. I was scared and didn’t want to be alone. I knew I would otherwise because I didn’t have anyone to call to be beside me. The pain was unreal and my friend, she held my leg. At one point my body went numb again. I no longer had any sensation. I didn’t know whether I should be relieved or scared. I remember screaming again and praying that I would be OK. I prayed all the way through the ride to the hospital. The numbness continued for a while, which inside I was worried that I was paralyzed. I later learned that I needed orthopedic surgery to my left femur and hip, as my femur was broken just below the ball joint and was detached. With additional findings my l1 through4 vertebra were fractured, and 3 breaks to my pelvis as well. I remember that I had to wait for surgery for some time. I remember at a sudden moment I woke up and my hospital bed was being pushed to the operating room. I was in a frantic. I told the surgeon that I didn’t want surgery and I was so scared. He told me if I didn’t have surgery, I would be crippled for the rest of my life. I didn’t really understand at this time how severe my injuries were. I didn’t know what was going on. I was told that my left femur and hip were broken and they had to reattach them with a titanium rod in order to facilitate healing and any chance for me to walk again. Soon after my world went dark.

I woke up laying in my hospital bed confined in a back brace with a traction attached after my surgery for my left hip and femur. I was recovering in the hospital for several days. Learning how to maneuver with occupational therapy. I had visitors from friends who would sometimes stay the night at my “hotel suite”. We would watch movies, sing and play music and visit around different hospital floors. Most times I felt very alone but blessings through others certainly appeared for me during the hardest and most vulnerable time of my life. My mother suffered through a lot of physical and mental issues. She was in a very dark place with substance abuse and living in and out of inadequate and unsafe living conditions. She also didn’t drive. She never visited me in the hospital and we rarely spoke. My father, I hadn’t seen in several years at this point in my life. I didn’t have any family around to be there in any form of support for me. I had friends and colleagues that were there and through them miracles began to happen. Soon enough I would face the end of my time in the hospital and the bigger challenges of where I would go from there were now my problem. I didn’t have an adequate home or caregiver to go to. My only option that was given to me at this time would be a nursing home facility. As anyone can imagine the challenges of that alone at such a young age were frightening on the physical, mental , and financial standpoint. It wasn’t until my former boyfriend caught wind of my accident and situation and immediately called his parents. He told his mother to please take care of me as I had no one. He was a relationship I had in since the age of 17. He was my best friend and he taught me a lot about life, he protected and supported me through much when I didn’t have anyone else. We were young and eventually parted ways as we were growing through life and he moving back to his home country in need of figuring out his future. Meanwhile, I moved into his parents downstairs dining room which they converted into my hospital room. Equipped with a hospital bed, accessible side tables and even beside commode. I was like a small child during my recovery where I could do very little for myself. His mother took the role of my nurse and caregiver. I had several days of physical therapy per week, which she drove me to.  This family was my guardian angel. The biggest blessing one could ever receive. Having no obligation to bring a stranger into their home and love and care for someone just as their own. A family I could never be more thankful for and in hopes they will always know this. Over the years we became countries apart, life changes, families and new relationships of our own, but my heart will always  be so full of love for these angels throughout the rest of my life. I know that they were brought into my life to serve a higher purpose. Not only did they aid me to my physical recovery, but their humane acts of extreme love and kindness taught me one of the most valuable and powerful lessons I could have ever at such a young age.

I remained jovial during the toughest time of my life. I was hopeful and optimistic  in not only recovering, but exceeding the negative expectations of even my healthcare providers. I went to therapy each day challenging myself and pushing through the pain. I would recall the words of physicians in the hospital that told me I would never be normal or perhaps walk well again. I would be limited throughout the rest of my life. Those first days of my accident, I had already decided this was not the end for me. I was 20 years old. I had many goals and dreams. I was working hard already to escape a life of darkness and in-spite my accident, I believed this too would pass. Like everything else, I would heal and I would learn from it. Only adding to the unbreakable strength I was already building on. I was always positive. Though my experiences, I empathized with others and I understood that so many were just as alone as I was. Some unfortunately could not see the light of day, where I was always searching for it. While I was in the hospital, I would roll into patients rooms in my wheelchair to sit with them. Knowing how much of a difference it made in their own recovery as well. I understood that health was not just for living, but living well. Physical or mental help determines your quality of life. When a crisis occurs, the support one has will most definitely have a tremendous impact on recovery. When I was attending physical therapy, I also saw the patients who had not progressed very well. Mentally they remained weak and it showed physically as well. This made therapy for them extremely unmotivated and challenging. One of these days became the most enlightening for me. My physical therapist told me on one of my visits that he noticed a huge change in several of his patients since I had arrived. He told me that without me even realizing, I was motivating them with my positive attitude and larger than life goals for my own recovery. Most importantly, the kindness I showed to everyone I came across. Patients who were there twice as long, sulking in dark thinking, now had a motivating sense of support to positively lift them now through their recovery and journey. One they most likely never had. At this age, I didn’t go to therapy to worry about anyone else except for what was ahead of my future. I was more focused on me getting back to where I was before and fighting off the negative words that were previously spoken upon me. However, I realized that I would have easily been in their position or even worse if it weren’t for the blessings through the support and love that others were giving me at the very same time. A new hope that was granted rather than questioned. For this was a life changing circumstance that truly laid the foundation for me to keep on climbing, loving, giving, and living each day full of thanks. I saw the light and I was able to touch it. With my capabilities to do so while recognizing when others didn’t have that chance, all I could do was share it. It is the lesson that I continue to carry with me.

I have lost and I have suffered, but I know that with every challenge I have literally survived worse. That power keeps me dancing forward with my head up high and my heart full. Today gives you another reason to keep your head up high and smiling through. You have made it! I am stronger and always prepared to stand strong against what my be in front of me. My core was once crushed but it never crushed the core of who I was or would ever become. Not only did I heal physically, but mentally I substantially grew to a place I never new could ever live within me.

Each of us hold a super power. Look within yourself to use it and remain strong throughout your walk. Our journey makes our story. Share yours with others. Keep surviving, thriving, supporting and inspiring too. Where we may not always have much to give, our support and kindness goes a long way, and much more than we will ever know for some. It was through the unity of others that brought remarkable forces to my greatest aid in need. Through my own survival, I was able to truly learn who I was and ever could be going forward. Through my recovery, I learned the unbreakable strengths that I never knew could exist within one person. These strengths will only increase over time. As a whole, I learned that it is through community we can survive, but unity is most important to how we thrive.

My life has given me the challenges that have allowed me to recognize them as blessings. This particular moment was the beginning of my greater purpose. I understand the extremes of what life can offer and the magnifying effects it  brings to those with little to no support to overcome a crisis. There is always a gap to fill.  With each individual that steps forward, stability rises. This is crucial for the positive outreach that we hope to have among our communities. To do what we can do to give others the potential to receive a chance we have been given throughout our own fight. Never losing site of where we came from. We all have a story, maybe a few. The way we remain compassionate is never forgetting our story. This is why I share mine.

Continued blessings through your walk. Keep dancing through your journey!

-Amanda Marie Wilkinson

 

Adult Education Resources, Community, Education, lifestyle, Mental Health, motivation, planning, Uncategorized

Graduation at any level, is the highest level of achievement!

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Summer is near and we are coming to the end of the Spring Season. May is a month where we see much bloom and I must say, I just smile when I look at all that just blossoms around me. It isn’t about the flowers that have planted their seeds and nature took its course. It is about the people that have planted their dreams and have flourished to greater heights of reality. May is a month where sacrifice and lessons have made it to be the biggest part of the education for many and is recognized and celebrated as the highest accomplishment one could endure. May is a month of new and brighter beginnings for those graduating. Graduation at any level is an achievement that is undeniably a road one cannot undermine. A road that is incomparable to another. A dream for so many. A journey of the highest level of strength training- both mentally and physically. The biggest reward that sets you up the ladder that you will continue to climb.

Growing up I felt alone in my educational journey. My parents were not physically or mentally capable of supporting my needs, much less had too much more of a worry towards my education. Our home was incredibly unstable and we often went without. At the age of 12, I began to work. Finding jobs babysitting and odd jobs like painting and cleaning businesses. I needed this for school clothes and supplies. It also helped with basic necessities when my parents could not fulfill these needs. I counted on the right people in my life that I looked up to for inspiration and guidance. Friends and families that showed me a different light than the one I lived in for so long with my family. It is what kept me hopeful and the ability to grow towards greater things outside of my box. I knew there was more out there for me, I just didn’t know how to make the moves towards anything more than the struggle I always knew. I was a self sufficient child that learned how to work. I learned the value of the life we are all blessed to have, and I never took for granted the lighter moments of life either. I counted on myself to be responsible to go to school. It was a place of safety, and also a place of hope for me. Early on, I had already learned the biggest lessons from my parents, those I would never want to repeat. Lessons I am thankful for as they taught me more than I could have ever learned in a book. Though the books I never took for granted because I understood how important as well as remarkable it was to have the chance to obtain a higher education. At the age of 15, I dropped out of high school. Not because I was a troubled kid or didn’t like school. In fact it was the opposite. I loved school and I worked really hard. There were subjects in particular, like math, that I struggled with but I worked hard and I had many wonderful friends that were blessings throughout that time as my greatest support. However, there was one class that I failed (for the first time) and I was told that the only way that I could move forward was to go to summer school. I knew that this was a slim option as I couldn’t afford to go to summer school. Nor did I have transportation to go to and from summer school each day. My mother didn’t drive and we didn’t have a car. I wasn’t old enough to drive either. I looked at all of my resources but they were scarce. I will never forget how upset I was and even more so at the inability to do something that I knew was so crucial to my future. I hated being in such a helpless position and I felt so unsupported and alone. I just knew that I had to look at my options as soon as I could and figure out how to finish school one way or another.  I continued to work for others and save money. Eventually getting additional jobs as I turned 16. I worked in local restaurants and catering venues. Often I would see my old classmates drive in. I wanted nothing more to reach my goal of graduating high school. I was embarrassed, but I knew there was nothing more that I could do. I had to continue to work hard and save money. Luckily I lived walking distance to a community college. I would walk there and I started looking into the GED program. I would go to the library and utilize the computers to study and I saved money for materials to study and focused on the exam. When it came time for me to take the GED exam, I was ready and it was the biggest thing I could do for myself at that age. I remember when I checked the mail and found my test results some weeks later, I was so incredibly proud. I had passed all subjects with high scores and I was in awe of my capabilities. Realistically, I still graduated and even before my former classmates did. I continued to work over the years and continuing my education the best I could. I worked multiple jobs from then on for several years as I had to financially support myself. I put myself through community college before eventually transferring to a private University. Coming where I came from, I knew that I didn’t have another option. I had to do all that I could to work, and most of my work was finding the resources to get me to where I needed to go. Education is not something that comes easy and never should be taken for granted. In my case, like many, there is no other option if one wants to thrive.

It seemed life a lifetime to get through my days at community college, where most spend a couple of years. I was a non traditional and independent student. I continued to work as I started school part time as it was what my schedule allowed. I was inspired by some to study business as it would give me several options to choose from later down my path. I continued to work and go to school and I was very focused. I was qualified for financial aid and I utilized what I needed for my part time student status. I wanted to go full time and get finished in the expected time, but I didn’t have a choice as I had to work to pay for my rent and living needs. Time went on and I didn’t really know which University I would attend, nor did I know if I could ever afford college outside of the community college I had been attending. So for a minute, I put my studies on hold. I worked and continued seeking my options in the meantime.

Some time had past and It was during the time I attended a community festival at a University that would change my life forever. I was on the grounds of this private, prestigious, and what was known to be a very expensive University. The University that I remember as a teenager, that my peers would speak of their dreams to attend. This particular day, I was approached by a representative of the school. The man asking me where I attended school. I was not interested in having a pointless conversation with someone regarding any unrealistic chances of me ever attending such a University. However, I was stopped in my closed tracks when the man told me of the amount of scholarships the University gives to every student each year just for attending and being in good academic standing. I was floored to know that I was potentially able to receive 4 times the amount of tuition assistance than I was already receiving from governmental financial aid and grants. I knew that at this moment, this was it. This was my option. One I thought, like many would be so far fetched but it was here for me at the right time. I didn’t apply right away. I had to do my research. I had to understand what my potential schedule would be and how it could conflict with that of work. Well just when you think that your questions are couldn’t be answered, they are. Just around this time I was laid off from my corporate job. Oh, not to mention I was expecting my first child. This blow came after I told my employer I was expecting. I know! I went through the lay off emotions plus the fury towards the mistreatment. I didn’t let it slide, but I had to move on the best I could as well. This also effected the relationship I had with my partner and I was not only fed up with the mistreatment from my previous employer, but also the mistreatment I was receiving at home. It wasn’t just my future now that I had to plan and secure. I now decided to apply for the business program at this University I previously visited. They were right, I was able to receive a substantial amount of funding to attend. I was now unemployed and any amount of unemployment funding I was receiving was running dry. I had to view what my options were at this point. What seemed to be scarce, but there was a little bit more than none. I had to figure the most flexible, sustainable, and that will provide some stability. I felt everything before was crumbing down in front of me. Then I saw that all that crumbled became my climbing stones.  I understood that in order for me to receive all of the financial aid I could receive from all resources, I would have to be a full time student. I thought OK, well I am a new mother and well I have to work. I knew that this was my time to go back to school because the opportunity fully presented itself to me. Then my answer came. My new full time job was going back and getting my education. Through hard work and good grades, I would receive scholarships to pay for my tuition. I was eligible for government financial aid and I qualified for other grants and loans. I accepted every dime that I could and I not only paid my $50k a year tuition, but it also provided way for me to take care of my child and house hold. I spent the next few years unemployed and a single mother with only community peer support. I didn’t have family close by and I didn’t have a reliable partner to help me juggle mother hood and school, much less anything else. My baby and my education remained to be my focus. Days were not easy. My biggest struggle was child care. Often my child attended class with me, she practically grew up at my University. Moments when she was sick with fever or vomiting, this wasn’t even a big enough excuse to miss a final exam. So what else, she went with me!  I have photos of her asleep in my lap as I am taking a final exam before heading off to her doctor appointment that was scheduled right after.

I couldn’t wait for the day that I would graduate. I always looked further for the light at the end of the tunnel. However, this day would no longer be so important for me, but also for a little girl that I was setting a prime example for. I have always felt this day was just as deserving for her as it was mine. She was there from the beginning of her time learning right there with me.  Sacrifices came often, but you learn that there is no cushion in success. For the many moments like this through my journey, I have extreme gratitude for the exceptional professors and faculty who have went above the imaginable to support US along the way. I am thankful for the blessings that God gave me through those that came out of the wood works to be of a support throughout the long hauled journey.

As a brand new mother, I made the decision to completely change gears and take a turn down another fork that was presented in my path. As challenging as it may seem for anyone to make large changes in their lives, careers, and education, it is! At this particular time in my life, I didn’t create any restricting hardships for what was to come, as easy as it could of been. Instead, I viewed the inevitable as an earned doing in receiving a more positive, beloved, and rewarding future that I only wished for my daughter and I.

Through these years, came some of the tallest hurdles I could physically face, but I leaped. There were times I fell during those jumps. Seldom to none, moments were ever perfect. Just as I thought I could come close, I could never be prepared enough for the unexpected. I just knew that the greatest rewards come from the greatest challenges. So the only way to look, is up. Those challenges I swallowed and embraced. They were the lessons that propelled me further to the blessings that have come along the way.
My education wasn’t coming from a textbook. The greatest lessons grew through the many trials and errors, for I have made many. Though I appreciate where I am even more. How did I get through it all? I just did it-BOLDLY! However, I was blessed with a beautiful community of support as I could not have done it by myself. All of the times that I felt so alone, I was shown that I wasn’t. I am truly thankful to all of whom that walked along side of me through this long hauled journey.
NONE ARE EVER FORGOTTEN! Even if some of the most toughest of times seemed to have clouded our best days. I am thankful for the angels whom I received during these times as a beautiful testament to my faith.  I am forever thankful for all of whom were there from the start and were there helping me make it to the finish line too.
The person I am most thankful for is to the most amazing little girl that was the largest motivating reason I accepted the challenges gracefully and excelled in completion. The reason why slowing down or giving up was never an option. There is no easy way in getting anywhere, I have learned. No matter the circumstances, there are no shortcuts. If there were, there wouldn’t be a journey to appreciate, nor value gained and no lesson taught and no greater result achieved.

Allow your blood, sweat, and tears to become your fueling strength in never giving up on achieving your goals and dreams. There are no limitations to what you can do, if you do not limit yourself. This is certainly true when it comes to learning as well. There is no such thing as too little or too much education. What is important is that you are learning. With learning, you are growing. There are many stages and levels of education which  is evolving throughout our lifetime. Embrace the teachings that are given throughout your journey as you are growing with every step that you take forward. No matter the trials, hurdles, and falls that you may have along the way, these lessons were in place for you to receive your blessings too. Always remember that there are no restrictions in living our passions and ANYTIME is the BEST time to do so! Do not ever lose sight of the light that is within you! Shine your light BOLDLY on all that you wish to see and receive in your future.

Bring your most Bold self in all that you do in discovering your passions and talents while sharing them with others! This is your individual super power!!

I stand proud for those that have graduated along with me this past weekend. I am so proud of all of those that have taken the reigns on their education and pulled through to the finish! Congratulations to all levels of graduates! For the High school graduates, life is now beginning. Stay focused and keep driving! To all College graduates, this is another chapter in your book. Remember that learning doesn’t stop here! For the parents (single or not) who who have made it to the finish line, Cheers to you!!! This is your new beginning! Congratulations!

No matter what your passions are, you are never limited unless you limit yourself! YOUR HAPPINESS CALLS FOR A GREATER COURSE OF ACTION! STAY BOLD! Work TOGETHER!

Unity with Community!

-Amanda Marie Wilkinson

 

Community, Gifts, lifestyle, Mental Health, motivation, planning, Uncategorized

Passion is the GREATEST Obsessio

unitywithcommunity

All of your experiences, whether learned or modeled, are the ingredients that were purely given to you for the creation and development of not only your person but also to live out your greatest passions. Every step that you take is a trial and perhaps there will be error. This error should never be misconstrued as a fail towards your original purpose, but a way to re-evaluate the idea or situation to improve or perhaps even simplify the process. Better constructing your foundation and having that experience to build stronger with every step and level along the way.

Take your experiences as a greater practice each and everyday. Those moments where you feel defeated, lost, or uncertain, make sure they are not emotions towards what you cannot control. In this circumstance, the best for you is simply reflecting on what you can control and taking the necessary steps towards the direction in which you were headed in the first place. THe important thing is not to let unfiltered blocks keep you from going. You can’t control the acts of others, the unruly factors of life that get thrown in from time to time, but what you can control is your perception and reaction. In fact, the unrully factors that you may perceive as such, may not be anything more than a rightful answer. You can always change the unexpected by simply controlling you. All of any potential factor otherwise cannot control you. Always remember that. With each decision, thought, or step that you make, is a different outcome. Embrace what is given even when you do not ask for it. Sometimes these are gifts that life gives you. Simply accept and be thankful.

Failure is only a perception. It is a senseless feeling and block towards everything that you are and all of your potential. ELiminate these senseless factors, clean up the path in which you walk, and most importantly clean out your negative inbox which may be overfull in you having the capability in receiving the positive.

Evolve by experimenting and take note of all of your trials, successes, and errors. This is you perfecting your craft everytime. Pivoting your ideas is how you grow. THere is no such thing as failure, it is a falsified feeling of the lack of self fulfillment. An abstract way of defining something that you are not necessarily capabable of grasping. Don’t lose sense of your original self because one aspect didn’t turn out as you invisioned. Pivoting is learning what works, what may not be right for you and is the blessing to show you this throughout your journey, no matter what life options you. Afterall, each choice you make provides different passageways to a different path. This is why it is important to stay true to your originality. No need to change your focus everytime something doesn’t work, but let your passions become your greatest obsession. Always keeping your focus and originality while improving and growing. Be thankful for the blessed mishaps, for they are not there to fail you, but propel you.

I have come to very honest terms with myself in the many and continuous moments of my personal growth and journey. Those moments I was frustrated and too stubborn to stop forcing a square into a circle, and that energy blocking my clarity and truth that I was not even working wih a suare in the first place. It was that block that took over the truth of the matter. Once I was able to step out of the space and re- evaluate the place that I was in, I was able to instantly see how it was not the right direction of where I was actually trying to go. However, with these experiences down a wrong turn, I learned of new paths and understood where they could lead me. Leading me to clearer decisions and being familiar with something new that I  would be able to instantly recognize in my future as a either a tool, or a flag. Always be thankful for each one. Don’t resist what is presented in front of you. Don’t try to change something into what isn’t and can never be. Just take it for truth and make the best decision to take the tools you need to keep going. Whether a tool or a flag, they are both useful. They both are helpful in giving you two different paths, two different choices. Be honest, stay original, and stay clear in the choice that is ultimately yours. Never change your original answer, but adapt in the growth in which your education will bring you. Think about all of the times that you said to yourself “I wish I had someone to tell me this”… Well you always did. Instead of looking for a false confirmation based on you trying to remold your circumstances. Listen to the truth that is within you and the tools that that truth is attracting to present to you. Only developing your true and best self. You are your only source towards your full being. Nothing else can speak for you or see you as your whole self. You are your solution. Tou are your being. You are your greatest obsession. Never lose yourself, but continue to evolve to be your best self. You are not the problem, but your best solution. Live and share passionately!

-Amanda Marie Wilkinson