Balancing Career and Motherhood - Amy O'Brien-Brown, Class of 2010

The balancing act of career and motherhood is often quite an ordeal.  I have two sons that are six years apart, with very different needs.  The youngest proudly refers to himself as a "mama's boy", and the oldest wants me to hang in the background, only rarely acknowledging that he knows me.  Working as an elementary teacher, local association President, and a member of the Maine Education Association's Government Relations Committee keep me away from my boys more than I would like at times.  When I start feeling guilty because I miss a lacrosse game, or a field trip, I need to remind myself that quality is often much more important than quantity.  I have never missed a parent-teacher conference, concert, Open House, or more than a couple of their games.  I sometimes feel that being a teacher and a political voice for public education has made me have less patience on the home front.  Teaching is an extremely demanding job, and requires being able to change course in a second flat.  Although I never question my effectiveness as a teacher, at times I do as a mother.  The lesson that I am teaching my children is that it is important to be passionate about what you do with your life.  If you have passion, and devote yourself to something you love then the sacrifices are worth it in the long run.  I am often tired, but I am also fulfilled...with one exception, I can't wait to run for office.  This isn't the year, but the year will come.