Cathlena Battle:
CLASS OF 1969
Stephen Decatur Public School 35 Class of 1969
Brooklyn, NY
College of New RochelleClass of 2000
New york, NY
Cathlena's Story
Does anyone out there remember the two African-interpretative dancers, Cathlena and Christina called, "The Battle Sisters"? Well my sister and I preformed our last sister dance duet at Carnige Hall 1972. It wasn't planned that way but as we all know sometimes "life" happens. Yet it was a part of God¿s plan.
1967- 1969 Was a wonderful time for being young gifted and Black. Whenever I pass by "35" I can't help remember the many talent shows, school plays the school parties and the some of the crazy- talented young people I knew back then. Nor have I forgotten some of the wonderful teachers that left a lasting impression in my life. (Hey I'm a teacher)
After graduating from JHS 35 I was busy living and learning that "you are only young once" and I have no regrets. My life has been bitter and sweet. I still live in NY-(Sweet.) I was married,-(bitter), and divorced (VERY SWEET.)
I have 2 sons T Storm and KevButta, ages 35 and 22 as well as 2 grandsons ages 11 and 8 and one granddaughter age 3. My grandchildren are very precious to me. I heard someone say " If I had known having grandchildren would have been this great, I would have had them first." My grandchildren are the jewels in my crown. I am blessed to have them in my life.
My sons are very creative -talented young men and are both into music. T Storm and his children lived in Atlanta but he has moved back to NY with his 2 sons. My youngest son, Kev - lived at home until 2006 is now, {Thank You God), out on his own. and working and hopefully plans to return to college. Many days ...Expand for more
Kev would argue, "Ma college isn't for everybody" And I would tell him "But college is for you honey! Just keep on going! Just keep on going!" But, I realize he has to ready to make that decision for himself.
Over the years I've worked hard raising my 2 sons as a single mother. I've worked at many jobs. One of which was at NYPD as a 911 Operator for 13 1/2 years. I also attended two business schools, did a bit of traveling to a several of the Caribbean Islands and Hawaii. In 2000 I graduated from The College of New Rochelle, resigned from NYPD and became a teacher. I've taught elementary school for 4 years and now I teach English as a Second Language to Adult emigrants and PRE- G.E.D. Today I honestly love what I do, but, it is time to move to the next level. I don't like to feel like I'm standing still. I like to always constantly grow and move forward. Presently, I'm working on completing a Masters in Education, (God please help me), by the end of 2008. .
I've had ups and downs, I've loved and lost, experienced fear- doubt, and faith that moves mountains, sorrow and joy, success and failure. I've been rich and poor, lonely but not alone. Many of my dreams have come true while some hopes and dreams shattered and destroyed, only to dream new dreams set new goals and pursue them and move always forward.
Through it all, the human thing might be to complain. But I've learned time after time that my God is always faithful in showing me His love, mercy and grace. I can honestly say that I am blessed. I am blessed. I am blessed.
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