CR: You're My Mothers' Example

Dear Bonnie Dawson,

For a young woman you sure are busy. Going to sleep at eleven and waking up at five is no easy task. Yet you are making it work for you. I, myself have never needed to struggle the way you have; I would say thanks to my mother. We moved here, when I was nine, to the United States because she knew that her daughters cold be something greater and have more opportunities than back at home in Belize.

You are the kind of person that my mom always tells me and my sister about; the hard-worker whose job is never done. My mom, herself, did have her own share of struggles but always had time for herself at the end of the day. She always uses examples of people like yourself to keep my sister and I grounded and not ignorant about other peoples’ life struggles.

You also mentioned that your eldest son, the thirteen you old, returned home to Kentucky to live with his grandmother because he could not adjust to the new life style here in Chicago. You also mentioned that your other kids understood the reason behind your move. I am not sure but there seems to be a tiny bit of resentment behind that statement about your eldest son. I, myself being a young person who went through the challenge of adjusting to a new place, can tell you, it was no easy task.

Leaving friends and other family members behind, whether in another state or country, is difficult. I am sure it was difficult for you also, but a child does not know how to deal with that kind of struggle the way and adult does. I am sure you miss him a great deal, and hopefully you make some time in your busy schedule to give him a call. Just the way you miss him, he must miss you too.

As for visiting down-town, you should definitely take your kids there. All the buildings are amazing and I am sure they are breathe-taking to a child. I live close to the Lincoln Park Zoo, so I have been there plenty of times. It has to be one of my favorite places to visit around spring time, not summer. During summer the zoo is way too crowded to fully enjoy it. The best part has to be that it is free to enter, so no need to spend money on that. As I am sure you know the best part of motherhood is the time you get to spend your children on your free days. I know you are a busy person but spending quality time with your children is definitely a must.

How ever you would like to spend your time, always keep in mind that you need time for yourself and for your family. Keep being the hardworking person you are, because sooner or later all of that hard work pays off. It pays off directly to you or indirectly through your children. Also, keep being the great role model and example you are to people.

Your friend,
Vasti B.