So often when I wear something nice or I have a certain preference for clothing or food, people may compliment me. I inevitably say, “My mom got it for me,” or “My mom makes it that way.” My mom has had a large influence on my perceptions of style, scent and food among other things as well! I have my own distinct clothing style that I change as I wish. I feel it is an important part of one’s personal identity. :)
These days I find great comfort in certain aspects of my childhood. I had a wonderful early education at home thanks to my mother and her discernment. I learned more at home, on my own, with my babysitter and private tutors than I ever learned in a classroom or college setting! I learn at a much faster rate on my own though I have loved socializing and meeting new people. My early upbringing was very special though and it is hard for me to put into words exactly.
The funny thing was when I went to film school and realized that my mother knew more about directors, recognizing talent and appreciating excellent story lines, subtleties and character-driven plots than any teacher, director or screenwriter I met. Film school in Prague was great for shooting on set - a time-driven experience with its own stresses, that I value as there is nothing like jumping in and doing it. But in terms of storylines and appreciating subtleties, I learned that at a very young age at home. I took it further in my life. I feel lucky about it when I look back, as it has influenced me since I was a little child.
There are many things as well that I learned at school that influenced my thinking, similar to other people. As a young kid living abroad, I resisted influence. I insisted on being American, even when I got teased for it a lot.
However, as I have gotten older, the funny thing is whether I want it or not, English culture and my mom’s unique and special family heritage and upbringing is most familiar and home to me. It is filled with her independent views, aesthetic preferences and broadminded perspective. She brings her bright mind, beauty and awareness to everything, that just raises the standard instantly and makes your experience so much better!
I am an independent thinker. I cherish though my early upbringing. It was very special.
Also I enjoy things a lot on my own, but when I have traveled with my mom, it has always been such a wonderful experience! She just raises the standard and makes things more fun, more enjoyable and full of charm and little, special experiences. She is like a kid when we travel too - just a happy, free spirited and beautiful butterfly!
Some days I feel down when I think of how little I have achieved yet, but then other moments, I realize how lucky I am for my early upbringing and the time I had with my father. I know I am capable of a lot more. I achieved so much as a little kid. I have faced many obstacles in life but I have overcome them all. The question though is whether I will let that bog me down or remember who I am and what I came from. It is beautiful, good and very special. That helps me a lot.
When my father passed away when I was just five years old, I was devastated. He was such an amazing, loving and brilliant man and a wonderful father to me. I have met good parents of my close friends since then, many of whom I have bonded with, but not a single father compares to mine! I do have a lot to live up to. I hope in the months and years to come, I do! :) Thanks for reading.
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