Amanda Lamb: Her own person

I am constantly amazed as a parent how our children are in some ways our mini-me’s and in other ways completely unique individuals with talents that far surpass their parents’.

The first time you see your children do something you could never do — run a mile in seven minutes, sing a solo on stage, spike a volleyball— is the moment you first truly realize their individuality in a way that is exhilarating as a parent. That’s my kid? That’s my kid!

As my oldest daughter turns 14 this week, I am discovering more and more of these moments. At the risk of embarrassing her, I am so proud of her accomplishments both in the classroom and on the volleyball court, which has become her new passion.

It’s not so much what she does, but the fact that she is willing to try new things and work hard to excel at them even when she is not immediately successful. This, along with a poise and confidence that belies her 14 years, makes me wonder where she came from sometimes. 

She looks like me, and we share many of the same qualities. But, at the same time, she is a much better version of me. I guess Darwin was right …

I look forward to many more of these moments with each passing year. Instead of thinking the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, I instead will be thinking, how did she ever learn to do that?

I am reminded of a quote from Eleanor Roosevelt: “You must do the thing you think you cannot do.”

And she does. Happy Birthday sweetheart …