Suburban Outlaws Everywhere
By Pam Sherman | September 20, 2009
I’ve just returned from Atlanta, GA speaking to a group called the Brandeis National Committee about “HOW TO GET AN EDGE: FIND THE SUBURBAN OUTLAW IN YOU.” This is a wonderful organization whose mission it to support the library of Brandeis University and at the same time foster life-long learning for its members in about 50 chapters around the country. There are 900 members in Atlanta alone. While I met a smaller fraction, I had a wonderful time sharing my story and learning about how their pursuit of education at all ages helps to make a difference in WHO YOU ARE. We are never too old to learn and grow. Which leads me to my mother. Six years ago this week my Dad died suddenly. He was still practicing medicine at the age of 74. He and mother had a vibrant relationship and love affair that lasted 52 years and beyond. They traveled, went to museums, theater, concerts and lectures. When he died, I worried for my mother and her future. But she has been an inspiration to me. At 79 she still works as a therapist (really she just has to sit and listen as long as she can hear she can work - and even then…), she travels the world on her own, she drives into Manhattan from Staten Island 2 or 3 times per week for cultural pursuits, and she flies up to Rochester to spend time with her grandchildren. She also joined the Brandeis National Committee chapter in her area which has lead to new friendships and learning. Her sadness is still present. Frankly, this week so is mine. She joined us for the Jewish New Year and as we sat making matzoh balls and cakes for our celebration I couldn’t help but be grateful for our time together and for her being my mother. My mother is the original Suburban Outlaw, four children, a household, formerly a teacher, she went back to school to be a therapist. She has an EDGE (ok I didn’t iron my table cloth PUHLEEZE MOTHER!) but she also has an EDGE in the best possible way. She was thrust out of her comfort zone with my father’s passing but she continues to explore and dream. I hope she knows she is an inspiration to me and to so many. Suburban Outlaws, they are in Rochester, Atlanta, and among the ones we love. Here’s to them all.
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September 24th, 2009 at 4:29 pm
P. Awesome sitting with you at the BNC lunch…slamming doors and all! Hope this New Year brings you terrific success. R.
November 4th, 2009 at 6:27 pm
Loved your comments about your mom. What a wonderful role model she is to you and many others, I am sure. She has a great daughter - the apple does not fall far from the branch!!!!
January 24th, 2010 at 10:18 pm
Hi Hedria - guess what now she’s on J Date! how cool is that. I’m so proud.