Alumnae and Friends
Since 1919, Brescia University College has been preparing women to be contributors to, and leaders in, their communities. As an alumna, you are an important member of Brescia's community. We want to keep you informed of exciting news and changes that takes place. Throughout the year we will be in touch with you via the alumnae magazine, the e-newsletter and invitations to events. We hope you will stay in touch with us, take advantage of some of the alumnae benefits, and get involved as an alumnae ambassador.
At the Annual Gathering and General Meeting on June 13, 2009, a slide presentation highlighted College and Alumnae Association events of the past year.
Then, alumna Jennifer Mott '87 delivered the keynote address titled, "Basket of Regrets: What's not in yours?" The following is a synopsis of her presentation:
The Basket of Regrets can fill over time if you don't pay it adequate attention. Take time for two or three months (with a planned end date) to brainstorm and write down what you don't want in your basket.
On the appointed day, take some time alone to sort the notes collected and sort them into three categories:
1. Absolutely got to do
2. Wouldn't it be nice?
3. What was I thinking?
Immediately toss the "What was I thinking" pile! Don't spend any more time or energy on those notes.
The "Wouldn't it be nice?" collection reflects those things that would be a bonus if they happen, but aren't necessary to your sense of fulfillment. These notes are worth pursuing when time and the right circumstances permit.
Finally, the "Absolutely got to do" group is really important to work on so that you won't feel empty or disappointed. The following are steps to take to achieve the goals and realize the dreams in this category:
1. Choose a date for completion/realization.
2. Identify next steps to take. Use the system that works best for you, but it's important to write down the steps.
3. Does your dream/goal involve other people? If so, consider them in your plans.
4. When you have reached your dream, celebrate your achievement! Share this celebration with friends and family who have supported you in your quest.
Throughout Jennifer's inspiring and helpful presentation, she shared some of the steps taken and lessons learned in her personal journey to adopt a child. In order to prepare for this dream, she left a secure full-time government job two years ago to become self-employed, which would allow more flexibility than her previous job to care for a child. While Jennifer continues to work on this dream, her research taught her that we nurture or mother many people without birthing them. For example, she has opened her home to 30 home-stay students over the past 10 years. "I will embrace life and will have a full life whether or not that goal (to adopt) is met."
Jennifer closed with the following advice. "Maybe you don't go through the whole process. If you are at a crossroads in your life, just think of this: Is it going to end up in the Basket of Regrets or is it not?"