top of page
Search
Writer's pictureTabatha Rainwater

Embarking on a Journey of Transformation: Navigating Life, Family, and Dreams

Embracing Transformation: A Journey of Self-Discovery, Advocacy, and Resilience

During the 2023-2024 Academic Year, I embarked on a transformative sabbatical. Initially, I found it challenging to open up about this period of self-reflection and growth. A need for self-preservation drove the decision to keep it private as I grappled with the internal struggle of whether to share my sabbatical journey with others.

As time passed, I realized that my sabbatical was not just a break from work but an opportunity for profound personal and professional development. It allowed me to delve deep into introspection, exploring my passions, goals, and aspirations. The solitude and freedom provided by the sabbatical enabled me to reconnect with myself on a fundamental level and gain clarity on what truly matters to me.

Through this period of introspection, I reassessed my priorities, reflected on past experiences, and envisioned a more purposeful future. It was a time of self-discovery and renewal, where I could nurture my creativity, explore new interests, and recharge my mental and emotional well-being.

While the decision to keep my sabbatical private initially stemmed from uncertainty, it ultimately became a journey of self-discovery and growth that I now cherish. The lessons learned and insights gained during this transformative period have left an indelible mark on my personal and professional life, shaping how I approach challenges and opportunities with newfound clarity and purpose.

In March of 2023, the state of Tennessee, our home state, passed an anti-trans youth law that had severe implications for our family. These laws were passed when our trans-daughter was 11.5 years old. The legislation sparked a wave of concern and uncertainty within our household as we grappled with the implications of this new legal framework on our daughter's well-being and future. We found ourselves facing a difficult situation as we had an appointment scheduled for our daughter's healthcare needs just a week after the laws were passed. The urgency of the situation became apparent, and we realized that immediate action was necessary to protect our daughter's rights and access to essential healthcare. Navigating through this challenging time, we sought resources and support to understand the full extent of the new law's impact on our family. It was a period of heightened emotions, advocacy, and resilience as we stood firm in our commitment to safeguard our daughter's rights and provide her with the care and support she deserved. As we embarked on this journey, we encountered a community of allies, advocates, and organizations dedicated to fighting for the rights of trans youth. Together, we worked tirelessly to challenge the discriminatory law, raise awareness about its consequences, and advocate for a more inclusive and equitable society for all individuals, regardless of gender identity. Despite the obstacles and uncertainties that lay ahead, our family remained united in our determination to protect our daughter and ensure that she could thrive in an environment that embraced diversity, acceptance, and equality. The experience strengthened our family bond and reinforced our belief in the power of resilience, advocacy, and solidarity in the face of adversity.

Amidst the oppressive grip of fascist mandates, our family made a poignant decision to seek refuge from the escalating turmoil. Being a mother responsible for the well-being of three vulnerable children, the necessity of finding a safe haven became paramount. Unlike the defiant spirits who stood up against injustice with violent protests akin to the historic Stonewall riot, my response was one of survival instinct - flight over fight. The weight of the circumstances compelled us to swiftly pack our belongings into a storage unit, transition our living quarters to the compact confines of an RV, and embark on a journey in pursuit of sanctuary.

The upheaval caused by the political climate forced me to temporarily step away from my responsibilities, taking a much-needed sabbatical to navigate the uncertainties that loomed ahead. The emotional toll of the situation left me with no choice but to prioritize the safety and security of my family above all else. It was a decision made out of love and protection, driven by a primal instinct to shield my loved ones from the looming dangers.

As we embarked on this unexpected journey, the road ahead seemed daunting yet filled with a glimmer of hope. The hum of the wheels against the asphalt mirrored the beating of my heart, a rhythmic reminder of the resilience that resided within us. Each mile covered symbolized a step towards a future shrouded in uncertainty yet tinged with the possibility of a fresh start.

We took our hot air balloon with us. We found the state of peace we drove after. In August 2023, we went down Highway I-40, slowly crawling away from our home. When we reached Western Oklahoma, still a conservative state restricting our family's rights, we knew we were almost out of the fog: our children began to smile.



Soaring Together: Navigating Life and Dreams in the Skies

Embarking on a journey with a loved one is a unique experience that can strengthen the bond between two individuals. It is a testament to the trust, communication, and mutual support within the relationship. Chasing dreams high in the sky represents the courage and ambition to pursue one's aspirations regardless of the challenges that may arise. It symbolizes the willingness to step out of one's comfort zone and embrace new experiences. Reaching new heights literally and metaphorically signifies personal growth and achievement. It is about pushing boundaries, overcoming obstacles, and expanding horizons.

As hot-air balloon pilots, Tony and I are not just navigating the skies but also navigating life together. The teamwork, coordination, and shared passion required for piloting a hot-air balloon mirror the qualities needed to navigate the ups and downs of life as a couple. Our journey from East Tennessee to the Largest Hot-Air Balloon Event in the world in October 2023 was a remarkable feat that showcases our determination and commitment to our goals. It is a journey filled with anticipation, excitement, and the thrill of the unknown.

Setting goals and working towards them is a powerful way to turn dreams into reality. It requires focus, dedication, and perseverance. By setting our sights on the Largest Hot-Air Balloon Event and making it a reality, we proved to ourselves that anything is possible with hard work and determination. The journey itself is as important as the destination, as it is during the pursuit of our goals that we discover our true potential and capabilities.

Keep reaching for the skies, for it is in the pursuit of our dreams that we find meaning and purpose. Success is not just about achieving a specific goal but about the personal growth and fulfillment that come from the journey itself. By continuing to chase your dreams and follow your passions, you are creating a well-lived life and inspiring others to do the same. Our journey to become hot-air balloon private pilots is a testament to the power of love, determination, and the courage to soar to new heights.


Embarking on a Journey of Transformation: From Seeking Solace to Conquering the Skies

Discovering community, acceptance, tolerance, and freedom allowed us to create our own family. Upon departing East Tennessee, we didn't have a specific destination; we knew we had to go.

After finding the solace we needed in the land of mañana, the land of enchantment, a place where time seemed to slow down, and worries faded away, we made a decision that would change our lives forever. With a sense of adventure in our hearts and a thirst for exploration, we embarked on a journey toward obtaining our private pilot license.

As we delved into the world of hot-air ballooning, we were captivated by the intricacies of piloting such a majestic aircraft. The gentle swaying of the balloon, the breathtaking views from above, and the feeling of freedom that came with navigating the skies filled us with a sense of awe and wonder.

Each training session brought new challenges and opportunities for growth. From mastering the art of inflation and takeoff to learning how to navigate wind patterns and land with precision, every moment spent honing our skills as hot air balloon pilots was a testament to our dedication and passion for aviation. The thrill of ascending into the sky, the camaraderie shared with fellow enthusiasts, and the sense of accomplishment that came with each successful flight fueled our determination to excel.

As we near the culmination of our training and prepare for the final test to earn our private pilot license, we are reflecting on the transformative journey we have undertaken. What had started as a quest for solace in a land of enchantment had evolved into a profound exploration of our capabilities and a celebration of the boundless possibilities that awaited us in the skies above. With our hot air balloon as our trusty steed, we are ready to spread our wings and embrace the endless horizons that beckoned us forward.

Embarking on a Scholarly Journey: Dissertation Committee Formation and Research Focus

Our return to the University of Tennessee in March 2024 marked a significant moment as I prepared to present "The Mathematics of Ballooning" at the prestigious Mathematical Association of America - South Eastern Section meeting. This event not only showcased my dedication to exploring the intricate connections between mathematics and ballooning but also provided a platform to share my research findings with esteemed colleagues and peers in the field.

Amidst the preparations for the presentation, a crucial milestone was achieved as I took the essential step of forming my dissertation committee. With the invaluable guidance and support of my department chair and the Director of Graduate Studies, the committee was carefully curated to bring together a diverse range of expertise and perspectives to enrich the research journey ahead.

The formation of the dissertation committee symbolized a new chapter in my academic pursuit, highlighting the collaborative spirit and unwavering support that define the scholarly community at the University of Tennessee. The collective wisdom and mentorship provided by the committee members are instrumental in shaping the trajectory of my research and academic growth, for which I am deeply grateful.

As I reflect on this pivotal moment, I am reminded of the significance of fostering strong relationships within the academic environment and the importance of seeking guidance from experienced mentors. The department's support and encouragement have been a cornerstone of my educational journey, instilling confidence and motivation to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

For my dissertation, I will conduct a comprehensive descriptive social network analysis focusing on the interactions within an undergraduate course. This research will delve deep into the connections, relationships, and communication patterns among students, instructors, and possibly external stakeholders involved in the course. By examining the network structure, information flow, and influence dynamics, I aim to uncover valuable insights into the underlying social fabric of the learning environment.

As an ABD (All But Dissertation) student, I have already completed all the requirements for my doctoral program except for the dissertation. This puts me uniquely positioned to dedicate my full attention and expertise to this ambitious research endeavor. Through meticulous data collection, rigorous analysis, and interpretation of findings, I intend to contribute meaningfully to the field of social network analysis within mathematics educational contexts.

50 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

AERA or bust!

I'm attending AERA 2022 in San Diego, CA. The weather here is lovely, there is a gentle ocean breeze, and a slight chill in the air when...

Comments


Post: Blog2_Post
bottom of page