Like most of you, after the holiday break, my kids and I are still finding our rhythm. Monday morning came with its usual chaos—bundling up in coats and mittens, navigating tantrums, and rushing out the door in the snow.

Five minutes before the bell, the side streets by the school were packed. In a hurry, I parked in the main street drop-off zone to beat the rush. “Why does every other car have their emergency lights on?” I wondered as I raced the kids to their classroom.

When I came back, I saw a police officer standing in front of my car. Frantically, I ran downhill, hoping I wasn’t too late. But I knew.

“Was I not supposed to park there?” I asked, breathing heavily.

His curt response? “I think we know the answer.”

And just like that, I had a $52 ticket.

When it all feels like too much
As I drove home, that ticket felt like a mountain. The stress of managing everything as a single mom with sole custody—raising my kids, working, running a business, and keeping it all together—came crashing down. Tears welled up, and anger bubbled to the surface.

I felt misunderstood. Overburdened. Furious at my ex for abandoning us and leaving it all on me.

When I got home, I went straight to my office, let the tears come, and felt…sooooooooo unjustified.

Now what?
I could’ve begged the officer, explaining the challenges of my life.
I could’ve sent an angry email to my ex.
But… for what?

Instead, I sat in silence. I closed my eyes, took a few deep breaths, and let the anger and sadness move through me. Then, I asked myself: Now what?

I decided not to let this parking ticket—the officer or my ex—have more power over me than it deserved. I paid the ticket immediately, ensuring it wouldn’t linger in my mind.

Respond > React
A few years ago, something like this might have paralyzed me for days. I’d lose sleep, struggle to eat, and find it hard to work or parent. But over time, I’ve intentionally PRACTICED recognizing these moments for what they are: opportunities to pause, reflect, and choose how I want to respond instead of react.

This is real POWER.

How do you handle triggers?
What do you do when something triggers old wounds or emotions tied to your ex? I’d love to hear. Email [email protected] to let me know. 

P.S. If you are curious, this is the ticket. 👇🏻