Almost 30 years ago, I decided to leave my husband of 14 years and discover who I was in the bigger world. Since I was aware of the tremendous upheaval my decision caused my daughters, I promised them that I would be an extraordinary role model of a woman. I realized that I had to have a damn good reason to make such a horrendous change in all of our lives, and being an extraordinary woman seemed to have the appropriate magnitude. Of course, Penny and Kelly didn’t hear this silent promise, for indeed, it was a promise to me! It is a promise I’ve kept.

Being an extraordinary woman is filled with awesome responsibility – the ability to respond to whatever I encounter. I needed to know who I am and what I value and then take a stand to live my life with integrity. What a tremendous learning process! I learned about self esteem and generosity. I learned about commitment and completion. And since I made mistakes along the way, I learned humility and forgiveness. It has been a remarkable journey.

I don’t like to think what would have happened if I had not kept that promise. I am certain I wouldn’t have the sense of contentment and fulfillment I have now. I know that promise is the most important promise I’ve ever made, and the striving to keep that promise created the environment for my daughters and me to have extraordinary relationships. Keeping that promise has set the course of my life and I am delighted to be now here rather than to be no where.

©2007, Jacqueline Hale