Our Daughter Has Blossomed in the Dorm
When our daughter told us she wanted to transfer to Principia Upper School, we pretty much ignored her, thinking it was a whimsical idea to be near camp friends. A year later, Hannah had completed the application, jumped through all the hoops we set, and packed her bags. To say we were surprised was an understatement!
We had many reservations about our oldest going away at the impressionable age of 16, not the least of which was who she would live with and what adults would have influence over her in the dorm. But since she has been in Aron House, we have been continually pleased with her happiness, progress, growth, and the support she receives from the dorm staff.
Dorm life has added so much to Hannah’s maturity as a “whole man.” Her self-management and life skills have grown stronger—whether it’s doing laundry, keeping her room organized, or balancing her time between dorm meetings, social activities, homework, and school obligations. Her independence and poise have blossomed. She has gained confidence and is finding the voice that is right for her. Not that there haven’t been moments of challenge, but where else could a young woman be surrounded by such loving, positive, Christianly support today?
The dedicated housemoms nurture, discipline, hold accountable, and love the girls through all the ups and downs of daily life. The caring, sympathetic listening and advice we received from Duanne during Hannah’s first year immediately put us at ease. We felt like she really knew our daughter and had her best interests at heart. She was supportive, encouraging, expectant—and shared in our joys as Hannah adjusted to dorm life.
The friendships Hannah has made and continues to make warm my heart. She is having experiences with wonderful young women she will know for life. Of course, they face challenges and disagreements—but what an opportunity for them each to apply the Christ spirit!
Today’s technology makes keeping in contact effortless, through e-mails, Shutterfly, texting, and the dorm Facebook group. I feel like I’m still an integral part of Hannah’s day-to-day life, not missing as much.
The dorm staff are making strides in including us in the little moments. Just the other night, I received a picture on my phone of my daughter delivering Wednesday evening testimony meeting readings with a text saying she had done well. Hannah would probably not have mentioned it, or just told me in passing, but I get to see her in action because of the thoughtfulness of her dorm mom.
Being separated from my daughter has given me a better perspective of her, too. I’m now more of a listener and a cheerleader. And as I listen and cheer, I see someone who is finding herself; someone who is sorting life out with the example and help of others who share her values; someone who is on a firmer foundation than when she entered Principia. And what I see and hear pleases me no end.
I had thought I might lose my little girl—but now I realize I have gained a wonderful young woman!
– Mary Sipe, Colorado Springs, CO