My Nanny

An Interview

By Abby B.

“Try your best in everything you do because you don’t know what the outcome could be.” This is a quote from my Nanny. Throughout her life, she has constantly strived to become a better person. She has faced many challenges and hardships. However, she always is able to come out with a positive mindset. She learns from her past mistakes and uses those lessons to continue to grow. My Nanny works as a nurse. The way she presents herself makes those around her feel comfortable. I love spending time with her due to her bright personality. She is always a joy to be around.

This interview taught me that a positive mindset can change the outcome of a situation. A positive attitude can impact how others see you. Your attitude impacts not only your own life but others’ lives, too. I learned that older generations have gone through similar experiences that I have, and that if I am struggling, I can always look to my parents or grandparents for help. 

In the past, I never thought about how my actions may have a genuine impact on somebody else’s life. Now that I understand this, I will try to apply this information as I take on new challenges. I am very grateful to my Nanny for doing this interview with a smile on her face. I will always look up to her and try to ease the burden of the challenges she faces.

Who was your biggest inspiration growing up?

My mom was my biggest inspiration. At first, we always had arguments, but as I grew older, I came to realize that she always had good intentions. We became really close because I was able to understand how much effort she put into raising me. Now that I look back, I can see how great of an impact she had on my life. Her cheerful personality made her a delight to be around, especially whenever we had family gatherings.

Why was your mom your biggest inspiration?

Her bright personality drew people towards her. It made me feel special to know that I had somebody who other people also looked up to and enjoyed being around. She had a big impact on my personality, without me even knowing, because I always aspired to be like her. Seeing how she interacted with others made me want to connect with them on a deeper level, too. She made me understand the importance of kindness and that how you treat others can impact how you feel inside. Even now, every time I think about her I feel cozy, like home away from home.

What do you want to see in future generations? 

I would like to see people getting along better. It hurts my heart to see people argue with each other. I wish everyone would accept each other for who they are and aspire to continue to grow as a person. 

What do you think is the biggest difference between generations?

This generation is a lot more aware of the problems this world is currently facing. In my generation, it was harder to depend and rely on each other. Naturally, we became more independent as we grew up and matured. I think your generation better understands the value of teamwork. However, I also think technology creates a big difference. Growing up, I couldn’t communicate with my friends so easily, through things you use today like cell phones and social media.

What do you wish young people would understand? 

I wish that they would understand that it is okay to come to your parents for help. They have a lot of experience in life. Though it may not seem like it at the moment, your parents have faced many challenges similar to the ones that you may be going through right now. Even in the hardest time of your life, you shouldn’t be afraid to go to your parents. Parents have wisdom that I believe can only truly be obtained from experience. You can use that wisdom to your advantage, as a resource to help you grow in life. 

What lessons and values from your life do you want to pass down to future generations?

Respect the people around you. Respect creates a positive, fostering environment for everyone around you – and it is a fundamental part of building trusting, strong relationships. In my experience, if you respect others’ opinions, there will be less conflict. You need to understand that people will have different opinions than you, and that is okay. You should respect their opinions, even if they differ from yours, and move on.