The (Un) Matron

The first time I spent a significant chunk of time at the Palmer household, I found myself surprised at the relaxed atmosphere where a mother could actually suspend her judgment and maturity to relate to her children (and their friends) without giving up respect and rank in the household. This is always what we, as teenagers, requested of adults ("We want to be treated like adults!") but we also realized that it was a paradox of a situation. Pam is the only person I know that can extend the range of time in empathy and advice. She somehow is connected with a huge range of her own personal experience when most of us forget a feeling or attitude within days, and she does not lord over anyone with her "knowledge" of the way the world is or should be. She also cares very deeply for everyone. She is slow to blame-- usually she will turn it on herself first. She always looks for ways to improve her relationships with others and has the kind of self-reflection that I wish I could maintain. I don't think she gives herself enough credit for how amazing she is. In her situations, I would have already wallowed in self-pity and blamed every other factor before failing miserably. I could only wish to garner as much respect and love from my family and friends as she has. I count myself lucky to be a part of her routine and life.