Why am I proud of my husband?

Mr K is returning home today after graduating with an executive MBA from Harvard University. Harvard is one of the world’s most esteemed institutions. Over the last three years, Mr K has spent three-week stretches in an attempt to upgrade, unlearn and learn. At 40 years old, when we are comfortable with our lifestyle and ways, it is hard to uproot oneself and leave one’s comfort zone. At 20 something, we are eager to have that, but at 40 we really don’t want to disrupt our life. Of course, that experience can turn either way, but it takes courage to embrace the unknown.

And that’s exactly why I am so proud of my hubby.

Something I am extremely wary of is being in awkward situations like living amongst strangers (who will eventually grow into friends). Don’t we shy away from people we don’t know, clinging to our own tribe for ease and acceptance? Uff, stepping out to actually live amongst people from diverse backgrounds needs confidence.

Mr K has also beaten the midlife blues. Oh yes, we had that phase too. Where motivation was wavering and we were making choices just to get by. But instead of surrendering to this life phase, he took charge and made sure he flipped it over.Mr K is also mighty consistent and doesn’t give up easily. When he went for the first session, it was freezing cold. Once he was back, I honestly thought he had the experience, now he won’t go back to it. But he did. However cold it was, however tough the routine, he didn’t give up. He kept at it and saw it through.

As a parent, he has done the right thing with his children. He has shown them by example that there is no age to learn and unlearn. Instead of preaching about education and hard work, he is going to lead them with pride.As a leader, I think he has done the best service of all. When you are the apex of a team you must always learn and gather new information. Your being relevant in the world means a great deal to the people who depend on you to take them forward.

But as a partner, this endeavour of his has been a gift. A marriage needs to be layered with love, admiration and respect. When we do something that upgrades our skill and understanding we directly and indirectly are serving our partner. For only a fulfilled person can create a space of fulfillment and acceptance in a relationship. And for that I thank him. For always doing more, so I have the best of him.

Of course, I have a gazillion reasons why I am proud of him. But his recent achievement has filled me with a newfound respect for him. He is truly an example of “if you can put your mind to it you can do it.” Have seen him live it time and again. I simply feel blessed to have a partner that keeps us going by working hard on himself.