Most of you know that I walked into a public school building as an employee for the last time this week – after doing so for 31 years.
I walked out with tears. Lots of tears.
Here are five lessons five of my students taught me in this, my final year. I’ve shortened their names to first initial, for privacy. These lessons could have been taught by hundreds of students I’ve known and adored over these last many years.
You might know someone just like them.
You might have been someone just like them.
- From G I learned that even if people around you have expectations you really want to meet, meeting your own expectations will leave you a lot more satisfied. His parents had dreams of him pursuing academia at a large liberal arts college after high school. Instead, he is heading off to play baseball at a small junior college. A perfect fit for him.
- From E I learned that even when the universe hands you a less than ideal childhood, you can still rise despite your circumstance – and not just rise, but shine. Her mom was killed by a drunk driver when she was in elementary school. She struggled for years afterwards but ultimately didn’t let that event be the headline in her story. She was glowing at graduation.
- From K I learned that sometimes you have to question everything in order to believe anything. He fought through a crisis of belief and behavior – and landed wholeheartedly on the other side.
- From S I learned that being good at something is not nearly as important as being good to yourself. She is battling perfectionism tooth and nail, and is realizing what’s perfect is her imperfection. It’s a battle I know she can win.
- From Q I learned that walking your own path will turn some people away, but those that will be left will really be yours. She dressed her own way and did her own thing and owned it every day. Her real friends love her for it.
Meet your own expectations.
Rise despite your circumstances.
Believe wholeheartedly.
Be good to yourself.
Own your own path.
I can’t wait to hear about the ways you’re meeting, rising to, believing in, battling, and owning your story.
I can’t wait to learn from you.
