Nevertheless, I understand that we view our children as extensions of ourselves and are, in fact, proud of them. So as the mom of a very accomplished daughter, I am both proud of Jenna and even more importantly, I am happy that she has so much to be proud of herself. That’s because accomplishing great things brings confidence and self-love.
I think my parents were most proud of my academic and professional achievements because they did not go to university and were so happy that my sister and I finished college and had successful careers. A parent always wants more for their children than they had. The interesting thing is that, while I am similarly very proud of Jenna’s academic and professional achievements, I am most proud of her character and her continual focus on self-development.
Jenna is very compassionate and is always there for friends and family members in need. This past year, she flew to Florida for a few days to be by her grandmother’s side when she was wheeled in for surgery. She took time off from work to care for another family member who was recuperating, and she’s always there with a cup of hot tea when I’m lying on the couch sick, seemingly helpless. Jen’s good friends tell me that she is their go-to person if they need advice because she’s a great listener and gives wise counsel.
Jenna has read many self-development books and has worked hard the past few years to become more kind, more loving, more compassionate. That has had such a positive impact on her relationships at work, with family and friends, and even among strangers. Yes, I’m proud of her intelligence, her beauty, her work ethic, her charm…but I am most proud of her heart. And I hope that she is most proud of that as well.