Eep, I feel so exposed...

Living in Spruce Grove has it’s benefits. It also is a smallish place, so running into other students is going to happen. And don’t get me wrong, that isn’t a bad thing. But I am used to being seen as Sifu Wilson (or previously Sihing), not Tania, mom extraordinaire.

Today, while Maya had a playdate, I took Haley swimming at the TLC. I figured it would be good for my ankle, and I could have some one on one time with my oldest daughter. It was fun, except that we hadn’t been in the pool for more than 5 minutes when everyone had to get out, due to contamination. It wasn’t me.

Anyway, I happened to see a parent and his kids from Kung Fu. I nodded in acknowledgement, like I always do, but I felt so exposed. Okay, I was in a bathing suit, and no one I know should ever see me in one. I did happen to run into a Sihing before at the TLC pool, and while it was awkward, it wasn’t like today.

I couldn’t stop agonizing over it. These are people who always see me in a uniform, or in street clothes on the bench. Not mostly bare in a bathing suit. I am a bit worried that their perspective of me may change, but there really isn’t much I can do. I am a mom too.

I am hopeful that they will not think of it again, but I know I will feel somewhat uncomfortable for a little while when I see them.

I don’t mind seeing or being seen by others outside of the Kwoon. And it definitely hit home that what we do outside the school will make a huge impact that we may not even realize. It’s important to continue to conduct myself as I would in the kwoon. I hate to think what a student might think if they saw me scolding my kids in a store. I have to continue to hold myself accountable, and will always strive to make a good impression to those I come in contact with. They could be a student tomorrow.