2025 40 Over 40 Series: Helen Haw
“I think everyone has a part of his or her life we might choose to do something differently, but even the unpleasant experiences help us to grow.“
Helen’s story:
I am a baby boomer. My mother was from Louisiana and met my Illinois born father who was in the army. We moved several times both between Marksville, Louisiana and Chicago, Illinois.
By school age we were living in Chicago until my senior year in high school. During my time in Chicago we would buy, sell, and renovate apartments. We were ahead of today’s HGTV. I learned and did a number of useful skills. Before my senior year we moved back to Marksville.
I was able to graduate from the same school as my mother. I met my future husband that year. We married two years later. While married I graduated from LSU in education. I later received a master’s and an education specialist degree We were blessed with three children. We were married for 54 years, unfortunately my husband died after long fight against kidney failure. My life continues.
As a teacher for close to 50 years I have learned most young people will respond in a positive fashion if the adults in their life remember that in order to be respected we must give the other person respect. Society has certain boundaries and young people will usually respond to boundaries if these boundaries are clearly expected and the reasons for them are explained.
What are some of the rewarding parts of the current decade you are in? The challenges?
The rewarding parts of this decade are many. I have connected with two of my former coworkers and we enjoy visiting and eating out. I now have time for my photography and painting. I continue to substitute at my former school occasionally as schools currently have difficulty in finding certified subs. I am part of a photographic Society which is currently putting together an exhibit concerning the segregation in Louisiana’s past. The challenge has been to accurately depict this era. To do so has involved various trips in Louisiana plus hours of research to ensure accuracy.
What has been your favorite decade you have lived through and why?
Each decade has had so many wonderful experiences. The 70’s are my favorite decade. This was the era that determined the rest of my life. I started my teaching career, became a mother or two of my children, and enjoyed traveling with my husband and children.
If given the opportunity, what would you do differently?
I think everyone has a part of his or her life we might choose to do something differently, but even the unpleasant experiences help us to grow. If given the opportunity I would finish my doctorate. I only need to finish my dissertation and take my orals.
What was your top life lesson that you’ve never forgotten and have lived by?
I learned this lesson almost too late in life. I have realized it is not just important to be good, it’s important to be happy and to make others happy. A friend helped me to realize a universal truth. Each of us want basically the same things in life. We all want and are guided by the desire to love someone and be loved.
What has bought you the most joy in your life?
My children and the ability to love and be loved.
What was your experience like working with Brandi Stage Portraiture as a part of the 40 Over 40 Project?
The experience was fun and informative. As a photographer myself, I found the concept extremely interesting.
You are more beautiful than you know!
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Much love,
Brandi
International Award-Winning Portrait Photographer
Brandi Stage is a portrait photographer recognized by the prestigious International Photography Awards and based in Diamondhead, MS. She creates an exceptional magazine-style photo shoot and timeless heirloom portraits for women, men, children and pets in her studio or on location.