Support is the framework that keeps a person upright, keeps them from falling. It is the love of a family, the concern of a co-worker, the hug of a child.
I receive daily support from the children in my early learning facility. I receive smiles and hugs daily, creating a happy, smiling atmosphere no matter what the daily dilemma may be. I receive support from my staff, they are always ready to assist with that daily dilemma. After work, I retreat to the solitude of my life with my husband, who supports my day by ensuring a relaxing evening. These supports help me stay happy and carefree. Without them, what would I smile about?
I am a list person. I have a list for everything, they are my daily supports. They build the framework of my day. I have lists for daily curriculum, daily tasks, groceries, staff responsibilities, everything! After completing a task, I cross it off of my list. This gives me a sense of accomplishment. If I did not have my list, I would be lost! I would be unorganized! I would be stressed!
I am also a planner. I have plans for today, tomorrow, next week, and five years from now! They are, of course, written in a list format! The support I receive by planning the future, as far as is possible, gives me a feeling of control over my life. If I did not have plans, what would my future be? I cannot sit back and see what happens, or nothing may happen!
My husband supports me by working at the child care performing errands, buying groceries, cleaning, and keeping records. He also completes most of the housework, freeing me up for other tasks. Without him, I would turn into a work-a-holic! I would have more work to accomplish, and less time to rest and relax!
My daughter supports me by working with me at the child care. She covers for me when I must leave for an appointment, or if I have a much deserved but rare vacation day planned. She has also provided me with three wonderful grandsons and a son-in-law! These additions to the family are a wonderful support! My daughter is my best friend. We can talk to each other about anything. Without her, I would be lost and alone!
In the near future, I will be inheriting the care of my older sister, who is turning 60 years old. She has the mental age of 3 years old. I will need many supports when this occurs. First of all, I will need my home rearranged. I will need to create a bedroom! Space will be very tight. I am hoping to be able to have enough money to add on a room, but am unsure that will happen. If possible, I will ask for support from my son-in-law and his father, who are able to add the spare room for me. Next, I will have to have support for the daily duties of my current position at the child care, located in another portion of my home. I am hoping that my current staff will be able to handle the additional duties and run the child care while I am spending time with my sister. My husband will have to support the new addition to the family, help with her, and learn to accommodate the many physical and social changes that will be necessary. He will have to learn to live with the prejudice and intolerance which exists in the world. Without these supports, life with my sister will be very difficult. These supports will be necessary in order to survive! Will I have my teaching degree before this happens? I hope to be able to use the extra money from teaching for the home addition, to pay off my mortgage, and to make partial retirement possible. When will I become responsible for my sisters care? Will I also have an elderly parent or two to assist? How will we fit everyone in our home? How will I run the childcare? How will I complete my education if this happens sooner rather than later? I will need supports to help me plan, supports to help with daily needs, and supports for emotional support. The most important support I will need will be that of my husband, who will help me to relax!
