Validation

As human beings we all need validation. Validation can come through words, actions and other signs.

When we were younger we got feedback all of the time. I knew when I made my parents proud (reward/celebration/conversation). I also knew when I disappointed them (grounded/silence/conversation).

As a student I got validation through 21 years of schooling through grades and reactions of teachers, through coaches and winning/losing games, through performing and competing.

It seems like now, when I have the most important roles I have ever had, the validation is a bit void. I had not been thinking about this until yesterday, when I got validated in 3 areas of my life. I wasn't looking for it. I wasn't particularly needing it. It just happened.

A complete stranger stopped what he was doing and commented on the way I was interacting with my children. That was nice.

A friend made a commment on Facebook that something I did a year earlier had a positive impact. That was nice.

A new teacher I have worked with for the last 2 years expressed how she felt working together.

In one day I got positive feedback about being a mom, a friend, and a professional. It felt good. It will stay with me. It was unexpected yet VERY welcomed.

I was telling Josh about this while eating dinner and he replied, "Yes. And you are an amazing wife! See? Validation for that too." Hmmm...not so natural, but I'll take it. :)

I won't go into the fact that this morning, when we woke up, Ryan showed us that he colored all over his wall last night...no, I want to hold onto my little gems.