Nostalgia and the Future

Tonight was the end-of-the-season banquet for the MASH Track and Field team. It was the first banquet I've attended since my senior year of high school, when I was the one receiving all of the awards. (Not bragging, just stating the truth) I thought about what a wonderful idea it is, to celebrate the talents and efforts of those kids. I recalled my glory days, and how much I enjoyed being recognized for what I'd done during the season. But back to the present, it's easy to praise and talk about the success of the more talented athletes, but it was far more enjoyable for me to praise the athletes that were with me all season even though they were never mentioned in the press, never scored a single point. The look on one boy's face when I talked about how hard he worked and how impressed I was with his dedication was just priceless. I was able to make his day. I couldn't help but to think, 'what if he hadn't done track, or any sport for that matter?' Would he go through all of high school, all of his life, without receiving such praise? Outside of situations like that, where the whole point is to praise people, how often do we really go out of our way to compliment and encourage others? I am so blessed to have family and friends around me that do make an effort to remind me of my gifts and talents. But I know that many others are not. Just one, sincere comment from me could have an incredible impact on them. It's that idea that keeps me excited about teaching. I could be that one person who believes in a child enough to motivate him/her to become more than they ever thought possible.  Just the thanks that I received tonight for making those kids better jumpers made me feel like I really did something. I can't imagine the sense of accomplishment I will feel, knowing that I've possibly impacted the rest of a child's life. 

990 Pieces of the Puzzle

Why do I have a blog? I'm not one to speak my mind; at least not to more than one trusted confidante. I am actually quite talented at keeping my thoughts and opinions to myself. In some ways, it's a wonderful ability to have. But mostly I do it because I'm scared out of my mind. If I voice an opinion someone might disagree, then I'd have to actually defend myself when every fiber of my being wants nothing more than to avoid conflict. So again, why do I have a blog? I'm stepping outside of the comfort zone. I'm putting myself out there when, even as I'm writing this, I wonder/worry about what people are going to think about some of the things I have to say. I suppose it's an exercise in self-worth. 

If someone were to write the story of my life, the saddest part would be to have the most profound moments omitted because no one knew about them.