Interview with my Mom

For my first inquiry into the lives of Army Brats, I interviewed my mom. Here is what she had to say. 

1. How many times did you move as a child (before you moved out of your parents’ home)?

8-10 times

2. Did you ever have to leave behind someone you called your “best friend”?

One Person

3. If yes, did you keep in touch with that person after you moved?

             

No

4. Approximately what portion of the year would you be separated from your father? (If it varies, just give estimates)

 6 month-8 months a year

5. How do you think being raised the way you were verses a “normal” upbringing changed the person you are today?

I learned to fend for myself and not ask for help

Because of all the movement as a child I was never great at anything because as soon as I’d start learning something, we’d move.  I was good at a lot of things.

The rules were clear as a child and the “do on to others as you would have them do on to you” has stayed with me all my life.

I figured out how to get around or go through barriers to get what I  needed and as a result I’ve never felt like I couldn’t make it on my own or not be able to take care of my family

I learned to make fast friends but not deep friends

If it’s fight or flight I’ll fight.  A part of me actually likes a good fight, but afterwards I question my actions.

I learned to establish my dominance very quickly in a room full of people I didn’t know if I’m pushed on. I’ll stay quiet until that point. Kids are mean to new kids and quickly I  learned to survive.

Things that make most of my girlfriends cry, don’t make me cry. I have a hard time understanding weakness and empathizing with people.  I was brought up to “just get it done”. I’ve had to work at trying to understand and talk to people who have a half glass full glass. To a large extent, I surround myself with strong personalities.

6.     How has your upbringing influenced the way you raise your own children?

It was incredibly important to me to bring the kids up in a nice suburban town that afforded them the kinds of stability I never had.

I was belted as a child for being a little late, telling a little lie, or mouthing off. I tried very hard to allow my kids to question me, not to belt them, and not be to so strict that they would rebel later.  I tried to teach them to respect others, but tried to give them the opportunity to speak their mind.

I wanted to provide them the ability to excel at anything they wanted.  IF they wanted to do a certain sport or hobby, I’d get 100% behind it if possible.

7.     Is there anything you’d like to add about your lifestyle?

Everyday still provides a lesson, and a better way of doing something. I try to not carry pain forward but carry the lessons I’ve learned along the way. 

Grandfather, Bart Johnson, flying his A4 jet