Monday, December 3, 2012

Giving Thanks

Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday- more so than Christmas.  For me it has always been associated with family and food, two of my favorite things!   But the concept behind Thanksgiving is really giving thanks and it is that concept that means a lot to me. 

When you think about it, a "Thank You!" is powerful.  I realize there is a time and place for anonymity in giving to or in doing something for someone.  But what is often forgotten is a "Thank You!".  It shows you are appreciative, that you care.  And it seems that in this day and age, caring is often forgotten along with a "Thank You!".  We need to spend more time on giving and caring for one another than we do in our busy, busy lives. 

So here is my challenge to you:  I would like you to think of someone or something you are truly thankful for and give a shout out thank you.  It could be recent or it could be in the past.  Doesn't matter.  For me, I want to thank those I seek out regularly as a sounding board, who keep me moving in the right direction or in some cases, help me to change course.  I appreciate your honesty.  You guys know who you.  Thank you. 

And to all of you, thank you for touching the lives of  kids and for making a difference in their lives, for causing them to smile, to laugh, to think, feel and do.  Thank you!  It's good to care, isn't it?

Live your life and make a difference. 

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Other Side of the Mountain

I turned 59 this week and when I was younger, always felt anyone in their fifties was old, perhaps ancient.  Well, I don't feel old or ancient . . . yet.  Maybe that will happen eventually.

But I did question what I've done with those 59 years.  Was it enough and was it done well enough?  Two important questions to consider, for you and maybe for you no matter what your age.

Was it enough?  Not sure about that.  I've been a teacher, a coach, a counselor and an administrator.  I know I've touched lives- hopefully for the better- and I'd like to think I made some sort of difference.  Like many of us, I've had both my good and bad days, and if honest, probably some break even days.  Lately, I've tried to be a bit more gentle, quieter.  I've always laughed, but now find myself laughing at myself a bit more.  I look at where I've been and where I am now and shake my head at times.  But I've also become more philosophical about that too.  You see, as bad as the past was, I'm not locked into that because at this moment, at this time, I can choose to change.  If I live my life looking in the rear view mirror, I'd run off the road.  At the same time, it's always nice to check the road you left behind because it gives you direction and reminds you of just how far you've come.  So, I refuse to live my life looking backward, but instead, glance back every so often to keep me grounded and humble.  I'd rather live my life looking forward.  That way, I can see what's coming at me and make choices appropriately.

Was it done well enough?  Oh, I doubt it very much.  But at the time, I think I did as best I could at that time.  Hindsight is always 20-20.  Being reflective always give one pause to consider past decisions and actions.  Best we can do is strive to do better and keep looking forward with a glance back every so often to remind us and keep us humble.

Live your life and make a difference.