i want to take into consideration how my relationship with mom & pops started.
- As a kid, I kept my head down. I did what I had to do, stayed in school and worked hard
- Emotionally, I wasnât really given much space to feel stuff. I never actually heard the traditional âbe a manâ schtick, but I was implicitly encouraged to keep shut
- My dad had too many emotions he couldnât calmly articulate
- My mom barely communicated directly and ultimately ignored my dadâs emotions
I want to understand how this relationship evolved over time.
- Middle school was the first âoh I canât do this because my parents donât have moneyâ experience. Overnight trips to Boston/DC/Phill wouldâve been cool!
- I convinced myself I was fine not going.
- In reality, I didnât truly know what I was missing. I was actually fine, but looking back itâs something most parents would have understood to be an enriching experience (even if it was optional)
- Mom and pops didnât know this was a thing, and for me it just meant I was under-challenged watching TV in class for a few days â no biggie
- High school was the first time I had to face my upbringing. I could no longer be âthe smart kid that worked hardâ, I was clearly in a disadvantaged position for the game that is college prep and it took me a while to realize that