Mindful Monday: You Give Me Hope

As we near the end of 2021, I'm sure many of you, like myself, will be reflecting on all that the year held for us: the good, the great, and the things we'd rather forget. 

In the last few weeks, there has been yet another school shooting, and the reports of threats and guns on campuses seem to be nonstop. 

It's easy to think "those parents" have failed their child. "Those children" were never going to be productive members of the community. 

My question is, when did "those children" stop being "our children"? 

Somewhere along the way, it seems that our society has shifted from what's good for the whole to what's best for me. The idea that many make decisions based on what is best for themselves or what will get them ahead regardless of how it affects others is nothing short of a sad state of affairs we find ourselves in. 

The quote below from Lilian Katz is profound. "We must recognize that the well-being of our own children is intimately linked to the well-being of all other people's children." The way I read it, she is essentially saying that we are only as strong as our weakest link. If we don't care for others' children, then we are dooming our own children. 

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Aside from a parent, a teacher is the most influential person in a child's life. Each interaction and relationship developed is impactful. Every smile, even if it's behind a mask, every fist bump, every "way to go", every "I'm so glad you're here" leaves a lasting impression. Our influence is undeniable. It is ONLY when "those children" become "our children" that we will know we are moving in the right direction. 

As we wrap up 2021, thank you for taking the time to get to know each and every one of our students. Thank you for investing in our future. And thank you for caring for all of our children. YOU are what's right in our world. Teachers, like YOU, give me hope! 

Let us not be quick to forget the struggles of this year. Let us not dismiss the lessons learned. Instead, let us embrace one another and make each other better. Afterall, when one of us fails, we all fail. So instead of stepping over thoses that have fallen, extend a hand and help them up. 

Here's to a 2022 where we extend each other more grace, where kindness is the norm, and where we are happy for others. 

Mindful Monday: Believe in My Belief

We're nearing the end of another calendar year. And just like at the end of any other year, we find ourselves looking back and reflecting on all the ups and downs we endured. And when looking back on 2021 in particular, it's easy to feel like this year was a loss, that maybe you haven't been as successful as other years, that maybe this isn't what you imagined life would look like or even that maybe this isn't for you. 

However, I know differently! I know with every fiber of my being that you are exactly right where you need to be. You are HERE because there is a student that depends on you, a co-worker that needs you, and a family that counts you among their blessings. Regardless if you believe me or if you feel the same way or not, I believe it! 

Les Brown once said, "Sometimes you have to believe in someone else's belief in you until you can believe in yourself."

And so, as you reflect on this year, if you are questioning your why or wondering if you have it still in you to make it through the year, KNOW that I KNOW you do! I have had the privilege of getting to know each and every one of you on this campus over this last semester and it is without hesitation that I believe in you.

I believe in the difference you are making each day.

I believe that you are leaving an impact.

And I believe that we are here together for bigger reasons that have yet to be revealed to us.

If you don't believe, I believe enough for the both of us!

Simply believe in my belief.