Monday, July 19, 2010

Interviews and Epiphanies.

Yesterday. Sunday. The end and beginning of a week.

While new students poured in, I remembered what it was like for me, just a week ago, not knowing anyone, wondering how classes would be.

I thought back on my week. I was now halfway done with this program. Where was I as opposed to one week ago?

I’ll tell you.

Although I’ve expressed my opinions on the class already, I do think so far it’s been an interesting and valuable learning experience, and I’m so glad I decided to do it.

The people I’ve met have been incredible, and it’s insane how every single day I continue to meet more people, make new friends, and connections.

Tonight is movie night, and we’ll be watching a film called Iron Jawed Angels, with Hilary Swank, so we’ll see how that goes.

Yesterday I completed an interview with my mother for the class. I asked her many questions about her experiences growing up as a woman, her opinion of feminism, etcetera.

It surprised me to see how much of my mother’s daughter I really am. I thought back to the interview process that got me into this program. I remember telling the interviewers that it’s said that you always turn into your mother, and even though many girls dread that, I look forward to it.

They chuckled, but I was entirely serious. And while interviewing my mom, I realized that we are so much of the same person, but I came to be that person on my own. My mom ever tried to force her beliefs on me, tell me how to think, or say I had to do this or that.

I grew into the person I am until her careful guidance, but I came into how I am on my own. And that is the most incredible gift a parent can give their child.

1 comment:

  1. (from Irene's Mom):

    Mariana, this is very beautiful and moving. And as simple as the interview assignment was, when Irene interviewed me last night, it made me think about how MY mom had set a fine example of women's achievement for me to follow. Although as a teen I used to cringe when people say I was following in her footsteps, now I'm realizing the many ways she was ahead of the crowd and made a space for me to "march to my own drummer" too.

    Leah Carroll

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