Wearin' Hats

How many different hats do us women wear in a lifetime? Plenty, for sure. Wife, Mom, Housekeeper, Referee, Cook, Lover, Social Secretary.... its no wonder our lives are confusing. Not only do we wear a lot of different hats, we need to be able to switch them in an instant, depending on what's going on around us.

And lately, I've been thinking a lot about the hats I've worn in the past. And now that my kids are grown, and I'm single, there aren't as many hats to be wearing at the moment. Do I miss them? No way! Well, ok, in some ways I do. With so many hats, a woman feels needed, for sure.

But when we move into the "golden years" (ack, I'm not that old yet!!!!!!!), we have a tendency to look back, to wonder about the hats we used to wear, and what hats will be ours now? and into the future?? One of the things I've noticed, or maybe its wondered, about myself is related to the hats I've worn, and seem to still be wearing. Most of you know I've been married and divorced three times. And yes, every now and then there's an occasion to hear about an ex, and I can't help but think to myself: "I had a hand in making him into the man he is now." No, I'm not trying to be a braggart and think that I took a lump of coal and turned him into a diamond! (lol) But I like to think that each is a better man for having known me. If nothing else, each of them learned a few good things from me, I'm sure. But ... the point I'm trying to make, or to reason out in my head, is that maybe that's a role meant for me: to bolster up, to encourage, to help men grow into who they're supposed to be.

Recently, I came into contact with someone across country who also works for a BigBox store. He hasn't been happy in his position, and hasn't been able to grow or move beyond the slot his store put him in. Rather than try to sway the minds that already seem made up, I encouraged him to try another store. And just recently, it happened; he'll be transferring to a new store, hopefully with better people who are willing to see his talents.

There are other men I've come in contact with as well - who didn't turn into husbands, but still seemed to gain from being friends. Mind you, its not a one way street, I gain just as much, I'm quite certain.

Anyways, just me, pondering on the roles I've had, the roles I am currently in, and the roles of my future and whatever it holds. Whatever hats you're wearing, don't grumble too much... you may miss them when they're gone!

hatty HUGS to everyone!