I wasn’t the valedictorian of my high school. In fact, I wasn’t even close. If I remember correctly, I barely even made the top 100 out of a graduating class of about 600. But for some reason, these past few years, I’ve attempted to be the valedictorian of just about everything I do. To be the valedictorian of homemade healthy meals cooked with plenty to share with the neighbors. To be the valedictorian of the organized university administrator who can work well with my cohort and solve “big problems.” To be the valedictorian of divorce–sailing through it easily and moving on to the rest of my life. To be the valedictorian of athletic endeavor, where I work tirelessly and am a stellar team player. To be the valedictorian of leaving the Mormon church, showing that it’s possible to walk away and be a values-led person despite no longer believing in God/Jesus/magical underpants.
<sigh>
So I think for awhile, I’ll just try to be the valedictorian of cozy socks, fireplaces, and afternoon naps instead. Something tells me that I might just be really (really really) good at all of that, too.
Picture taken on a recent beachside retreat. Aren’t those just the cutest valedictorian-worthy socks ever?
5 comments
Actually, I thought you should be giving the commencement speech this June (it was seriously FUN to do! and I got to say lots of sarcastic things).
No, I’m kidding. Although I would like to add that you should also be valedictorian of taking care of yourself. I know, I know, easier said than done. It’s always easier to solve other people’s crises, deal with *their* baggage, than your own. But do me a favor, will ya? Be you. Because quite frankly, I like you despite any and everything.
I heard the phrase “Anything worth doing is worth doing half *ssed”. I thought this was an interesting phrase, but useful in dealing with perfection/perfectionism. I remind myself of this every time I think what I do needs to be done perfectly, the best that everyone/anyone else has done.
For me, I found my drive to perfection was also hurting other people, like my kids, who just want to “be”. That’s not to say that I throw everything out the window, all standards or expectations, but I try to be conscious and mindful. And allow myself time to feel and process.
You always have the best socks. A valedictorian of sock connoisseurs.
You are a strong woman but you don’t always have to be strong. I’m the same way and I have a hard time letting myself be less than.
I have socks like that except they’re white.