Knockout

Interview #15 - Barb aka Knockout

If you’ve ever had a parent die then you know loss and grief. If you experienced that as a teenager than you can understand the extra confusion and difficulty in finding your way back to yourself. Barb was seventeen when her mother passed away. Her mother had been sick for years and her time had come. That left Barb as the oldest child there to help her father and her two younger sisters. She knew that strength was needed and she found it inside herself.

Strength has definitely been a theme in Barb’s life. At times it is her best asset and at times, her worst. Her spunky assertive way of standing up for herself is not always well received. But, it’s often called for.

In the year I’ve known Barb I have thoroughly enjoyed her. She has this adorable voice and calls me cute names like, “Toots” and “Chicky”, that no one else could get away with. I have observed her interactions with others. She is a very uplifting and encouraging friend. She’s quite good with tough love. When someone she cares deeply for needs to get a reality check she’ll give it to them. Barb was raised in church and is still very involved in that today. When I’m having a hard time she reminds me of Bible verses. Some people sound very snooty and preachy when talking about God but with her it’s natural and you can see that it’s deeply rooted in her heart. That faith has been instrumental in helping her cope with a difficult marriage and strained family relationships.

All relationships are difficult at times, especially the ones we were born into and didn’t choose. But, Barb says that life it too short to be miserable!

During our lunch together I was a bit taken aback by Barb’s talk of strength. Almost every answer included her need to be strong and the times she’s shown that. At one point she looked down and quietly said, “Sometimes I wish I wasn’t me.” There it was. That was the first moment while talking with her that I could feel her emotion and her energy. I myself have wished many times that I was someone else, even if only for a moment. A chance to escape the things I don’t like in my life. I’m guessing that most of us have daydreamed about that at some point. But I am so thankful that I am who I am and I am so blessed to know Barb.

Barb, you are strong but it’s okay to feel weak sometimes. It’s good to find your vulnerability. You will always be a strong woman but you’re human and that’s beautiful too.

Barb is a happy home owner and business owner. She’s active in church and brings a smile to my face almost every day! She is a blessing and she wants to urge all of to never ever doubt ourselves!