As I start this week's post, I'm hesitant because it is so personal. Let me share my FaceBook post:
It's an understatement to say that I have carried the small spark that the authors were discussing. Here's the quote:
When exploring my avenues and exit strategies after my divorce several years ago, I was avoiding costly litigation to gain custody of my son. My ex-husband had taken my son, 5 years old, to Oregon - three states away. Although not that far, 600 miles, it might as well have been in China to me. I had no money, a costly mortgage, a teenage daughter who had needs and was trying to get through high school. In addition, I drove an unreliable 1986 Camry and worked two jobs late into the evening. I was also trying to free-lance websites on the side and weekends. We had no money to heat the house in those cold Montana winters. Frequently, my pipes would freeze and we would have no water. This is when the predators set in. If you've been in this situation, you know what I'm talking about. You are trying so hard to believe that there is goodness in the world, yet you are so shattered, that the reality you create is bleak. I looked at FullSail. I knew on-line education was the only option for furthering my skills. My ex-husband had his master's degree and was able to find an excellent job in Oregon. He recovered quickly and within a few weeks, found a suitable partner and they began building their dream home upon the banks of the river in Portland. This set heavy toil on me relationship wise. I felt trapped. I applied to FullSail. They offered me a teacher scholarship, but it would still be a heavy price to pay. Soon, I will graduate. I am reunited with my, now 9 year old son and am exploring career options. I'm here to tell you that I am walking testament of the book Art of Possibility. I look at things different, invest in myself, can recognize perpetrators, and have a new gained sense of self and confidence. Although not confident and secure all the time, I view my experience at FullSail as a launching pad to view the abundance and see possibility in the world instead of entrapment. I have much work to do.
This is a very moving post, Kat. Perseverance and walking with possibility have been a key factor in your life. You carry your spark with you at all times like the quote. I can’t imagine how hard this journey must have been for you. You truly are a walking testament to the book The Art of Possibility. I have always been impressed with your work at the Tribal College. From some of the videos you have created, I can see that you are passing on the spark as you open up pathways of possibility to those young adults. You have allowed them to hold on to their rich culture and at the same time learn about new ideas. What a testament to your son that you keep your promises. I know this reunion is long over due. Full Sail University is a launching pad for me also. There is much work still to be completed but - Possibility is everywhere.
ReplyDeleteThere are have been very few times during my time with Full Sail University that I have been as moved as I have after reading this post. I cannot even begin to put into words the enormous amount of respect and pride that I feel for you right now. My time with Full Sail may not ever mean as much to me as it obviously could for you... but I will carry your story of perseverance with me from now on. Thank you- no, really, Thank you- for your post. I wish you all the best and congratulate you on not giving up and overcoming. You are not only making a difference in the lives of your students, but making a difference in your children's lives ... and your own. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for sharing your ongoing journey and for hanging in there to see it through thus far. It's so precious that you have had that little spark to hold on to and be able to move through all of the difficulty and opposition. I'm glad that the Art of Possibility spoke to you and came to you when you needed it. Onward and upward, my friend.
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