📝 Introduction

Life often introduces us to individuals who leave lasting impacts, shaping us in ways we may not fully appreciate until much later. During my senior year of high school, two such individuals entered my life—both named Roberta. Each played a unique role during a tumultuous period marked by rebellion and personal challenges. This is the story of the two Robertas: one a guiding light who pushed me towards my potential, and the other a complex figure who, despite her kindness, represented a different kind of influence.

🌠 Roberta One: The Guiding Light

Roberta One worked at the YWCA where I lived during my senior year of high school. By then, life was marked by delinquency, alcoholism, and frequent absences from school. Roberta, a college student with a blonde, hippie vibe, was a chain smoker. Despite her quirks, she was incredibly kind and constantly encouraged me to finish high school.

One memorable night, she took me to her house to help me complete a book report due the next day. We stayed up all night, and I received an A on that report. Roberta’s persistence paid off; I graduated and left town for Texas. She stayed in touch and even got me to apply for college. Though I eventually dropped out, her influence and encouragement left a lasting impression. News of her passing many years later was devastating, and I mourned her as if she were a family member. Roberta One holds a special place in my heart because she genuinely cared.

🌆 Roberta Two: The Complex Companion

Roberta Two was another significant figure during this period. She came to town to attend college and was a stylish city slicker from NYC Harlem. She was dating my father, a notorious womanizer. Despite being only in her mid-20s, she seemed like an adult to my teenage self.

At the time, Roberta Two seemed cool because she smoked pot and would share it with me. Looking back, I realize how irresponsible that was. Despite this, she showed me kindness in ways my mother did not. When I was ill, she let me stay at her place instead of going to school, brought me gifts from the city, and even tried to style my hair after my mother cut it all off.

We stayed in touch for years, even into my adulthood. I helped her find jobs in the city, and we maintained a semblance of friendship. However, as I grew older, what I once saw as cool began to feel irresponsible and exhausting. My respect for her waned, and eventually, I decided it was best to part ways. I have not seen or heard from her in over 20 years, though I still hope she is well.

💭 Conclusion

The two Robertas played pivotal roles during a formative period of my life. Roberta One was a beacon of encouragement and support, while Roberta Two offered a different kind of companionship. Reflecting on these relationships as an adult has given me a deeper understanding of their impacts and the importance of positive influences. Though my journey with each Roberta ended differently, they both contributed to my growth and self-awareness.

The story of the two Robertas falls under the following categories:

• 🌱 Growth: The narrator experiences personal growth through the influences of both Robertas.
• 💡 Inspiration: Roberta One, in particular, serves as a source of inspiration and encouragement.
• 💪 Resilience: The narrator demonstrates resilience in overcoming personal challenges and learning from complex relationships.
• ⚖️ Imperfection: The story highlights the imperfections in both Robertas and the narrator’s journey.
• 👐 Non-Judgemental: Reflects on the acceptance and understanding of both Robertas despite their flaws.
• 🤝 Mutual-Support: Both Robertas, in different ways, provided support during a crucial period in the narrator’s life.
• 👫 Bonding-Unity: The relationships with both Robertas contributed to a sense of bonding and unity during formative years.
• 🚧 Boundaries: The narrator eventually sets boundaries with Roberta Two for their well-being.
• 🗺️ Guidance: Roberta One provided significant guidance and encouragement.
• 👥 Presence: Both Robertas had a notable presence in the narrator’s life during high school.
• 💍 Commitment – Gender Roles: Explores non-traditional gender roles through the relationships with both Robertas.
• 🏡 Partnership – Family Values: Examines the non-traditional partnerships and family dynamics through the interactions with both Robertas.
  
  🗣️ Call to ActionHave you had influential figures in your life who left lasting impacts? How did they shape your journey? Share your stories and thoughts in the comments below. Let’s create a supportive space for reflecting on the people who have influenced our lives. 🌟