I wasn't feeling upset and haven't really been upset at all, just bothered by something that has never really bothered me before in the 10 years I have done this. Just stated really how surprised I was that I felt so bothered by such a "normal" part of this job. Kids come and kids go, that is the nature of the beast in Day Care....I guess in the way this child left was what was such a surprise to me.
As far as my comment of the paycheck being a added bonus/perk? My point is that this job is literally a "dream" (to me), yes I do need the money, and in all honesty, would not do this job if there was no money exchanged, I AM worth more than doing it for free, thats for sure. My comment was more in the direction of, quite often I realize I am collecting paychecks to do exactly what I really love doing, loving little ones. It is really a blessing to do what you love and get paid for it, it just seems to good to be true. Some providers although good at what they do, probably do not understand what I mean, because although they like what they do and enjoy staying home with their kids and being able to make money at the same time, also do not do it in the same passion I feel I do. I'm sure to some it is a stepping stone to do whats best for their children and family right now, but can't wait to get back into the "work force" with other adults and get out of the house....not me! I want to do this until I am done working, retire from it. I don't think that makes me less of a professional I think it makes me "true" and "honest" and lucky....I feel lucky to do what I love and get paid.
As I said, I wouldn't do this job if I didn't get paid for it? but I would adopt children, children that need love, and I WOULD do that for free.
I am honestly not here just to stay home or to just make money while raising my own children (those are the perks) I am doing this because I honestly couldn't imagine doing anything else in the world. It's what I was meant to do.