Life is about Showing Up

The other day, I called my mother-in-law to go over the latest plans for a trip she was planning with my kids. I apologized that I had trouble keeping up with the latest iteration of the plan and that I just had a lot on my plate right now, especially as we approach the final months of the campaign.

“It’s okay,” she said. “Life is about showing up.” She pointed out that my kids are seeing the lesson that their mom is stepping up and showing up for them. It struck me how true it is that part of the battle is just being willing to try, to show up.

When someone in your family is going through a difficult time, you show up.

When your friend needs someone to listen, you show up.

When you have a big test at school that you’re really worried about, you show up.

I thought about how much I’m pushing myself outside of my comfort zone. Speaking in front of crowds, knocking doors, interacting with so many people. Even though I might be really nervous, I still show up.

These are lessons that my kids are seeing. They are watching their mom show up for them and for our community. I showed up in Annapolis last year to talk to legislative aids asking for flexibility on implementing the Blueprint. I showed up last October to ask the Commissioners to pause the transfer of the Dulaney Property in Sykesville in case it could be used as a future school replacement site. I showed up at this year’s budget hearings advocating for our schools. I showed up at the June BOE meeting when I learned the overnight portion of Outdoor School was being closed.

I am showing up. I will continue to show up. Life is about showing up and giving it your best.

Life is about showing up for the things that are important.