My Card.

I made a thing. It’s a little thing really, only about 2 X 3 inches. I’ve had other things like this. They associated me with an institution, a company, a brand that wasn’t mine. They squished me into a tiny box, and I made it fit. I made myself hide behind a strip of paper, with only my credentials and contacts peaking out.

But not this time. This time my card feels like a very big thing, maybe even monumental. This time my card holds all of me. Not just my education and expertise. And not just my creative eye and ability. This card makes space for both and more. This card alludes to my values, and gives glimpses of my story. This card displays my personality.

I never imagined it was possible, or even desirable, to blend the personal and professional. I drew thick lines in the sand of my identities. But now I see how it’s all connected. I see how my early years beckoned me to a career in early childhood. And I see how my creativity has helped propel my career. I bring all of these selves into each room whether I enter as a mother, a creator, a facilitator, or an educator.

So let it be known: Heretofore, I want the executives on interview panels to know that English is not my first language. I want those who wear my jewelry to know that my eye for detail was honed while laboring over my dissertation. I want my training participants to know that I’m trudging through the same struggles with my own kiddos. 

I want to be seen for all of me. So here, take my non-business card.