8. Randy learns many lessons throughout his personal and professional life. Tell about the best lesson you have learned by accident in your own personal and professional life.
In my personal life, I would say one of the best lessons I have learned by accident was when my grandmother was sick with Alzheimer’s. It was such a sad experience to see her and those around her suffer the way they did. During that time, I was able to see how a small gesture can make someone’s day. While she was in the Alzheimer’s wing, we met many other families that were going through the same feelings and emotions that my family was. One day, a lady whose huband suffered from Alzheimer’s gave all the families a small plant and a poem. The poem was such a heartfelt and meaningful poem. While we were walking in that day, we saw every family giving more hugs and kisses to their loved ones. I wish I still had a copy of that poem but it reminded the caregivers that their loved ones were still around even though they may “look” or “act” differently than they were used to. The wing was full of love and support. I never knew the ladies name but I will never forget how such a small gesture could impact so many people.
Professionally, I feel like I learned early on that everything is not always what it seems. I had a student who was getting abused and she hid the signs so well it was scary. She did not want anyone to know her situation. One day her counselor came up to me and told me her situation and I broke down. She was the kid who was friends with everyone, kind, smart, and involved in everything. I NEVER would have suspected anything bad was happening to her. She was a person that made it seem like everything in her life was awesome. In those moments, I was able to see that not everything is as it seems and to not “judge a book by its cover.” People all have different ways of dealing with hardships and we should never be quick to judge on how good or badly someone has it because everyone has their own struggles in life.
This really touched me. My grandmother suffered from Alzheimer's and now my mother-in-law. It is such a heart-wrenching disease. The smallest, most innocent things sometimes have the greatest impact. Thank you for the reminder!!
One of the life lessons I learned was through running. I didn't start running until I was 38 and I have since ran 2 half marathons. It was here that I discovered that no matter how low you are, you always have more in you to give and to keep going. I didn't realize this was a lesson beyond running until I turned 40. My husband was diagnosed with Kidney Cancer right after his mother was diagnosed with ALS. It was an extremely stressful time trying to keep it all together for him, for our kids, for my classroom. I had a moment where it hit... me just like on those long runs where you want to, need to quit and give up but you don't. You go deep inside yourself and say "I am strong and I can do this, I have way more to give". That lesson got me through the toughest times.
Professionally....I can think of some many its hard to choose. Don't be afraid to take chances and try something new. A few years ago I went outside my comfort zone and began teaching classes to adults. I absolutely love it!
It is amazing how strong one can be and how much the mind can truly affect your approach on things. If you can keep a positive mind, I think it helps one conquer many difficult tasks that come your way
A lesson I learned in my personal life is that family comes first. My grandmother taught me this by not only stressing it a million times throughout her lifetime but showed us that in the end, no matter where life takes you, your family should still remain. I think this is such a valuable lesson for others to understand because family is so important and it is different from friendships.
Professionally, I taught myself the lesson that attitude is everything. Having a growth mindset is key, not only for our kiddos but ourselves. We need to carry out our lives positively because we need to model what we want to see in our students. I have had the "pleasure" of working with some negative, Debby-downer teachers and it just makes for a miserable atmosphere.
I agree with you Kelsey! I believe that attitude is one thing we can control pretty much ALL the time. What your attitude is going into a situation can make all the difference. Or even just your attitude from day to day, the students will feed off of it, good or bad.
I have learned that sometimes (most of the time) people just need someone who will listen. This is true in both my personal and professional life. So many times when you share an issue or a problem with someone, he or she always seems intent on solving the problem for you or trying to give you advice. I used to do this. In reality, all you really might need is a sounding board or a shoulder to cry on. Throughout the school year I have many students who come to me for help or for advice on issues they’re facing in their lives. It wasn’t until recently that instead of telling them what I would do, I put the ball back in their court with questions like, “What is your heart telling you to do?” or “What do you think is the best course of action?” It’s amazing what kids can come up with on their own when we just give them our time and attention and steer them toward proper coping skills.
The same applies to my personal life. My daughter came to me this week asking to talk with me privately. We finally got the chance tonight and I was amazed at what spilled out of her when it was just the two of us in a quiet place. Again, me giving her my time and undivided attention allowed for her to truly open up and get things off her chest. I am grateful for the trust that my daughter and many of my students put in me and wish nothing but for it to continue well in to the future.
A lesson I learned in my personal life, not really by accident, but something I didn't expect, was from becoming a parent. I learned that I am much stronger than I ever thought I was, and my limits are well past what they were when I was just looking out for myself. Taking care of other humans adds a whole new level of complexity and responsibility that is impossible to fathom before you do it. So I guess I learned that you can't really know what other people go through in their own lives unless you experience it yourself.
In my professional life, I am often surprised when talking to former students, what they remember from their years in my class. So I always try to keep in mind that they listen to what I say even when I don't think they are, and I sometimes have a greater effect that I realize at the time.
I think this is so important- even in the moment, when we think we are talking to hear ourselves talk- they do really listen to us and some even HEAR what we are saying! I always love seeing former students and it's nice when they mention their memories of time spent in our classes.
I found the same thing to be true when I had children! Wait until you have grandchildren. My daughter had twin and my wife and I spent a good deal of time watching them when they were babies. I can remember some long nights and then keeping up with them all day. It was exhausting, but I loved every minute. Every minute we spend with the children/people we care about is precious time.
The best lesson I have learned by accident in my professional life would be that I LOVE working with special education students. I didn't know that it would be two things--EXTREMELY CHALLENGING and EVEN MORE REWARDING. I also love co-teaching. I really can't even contain my excitement when these students show the amount of growth they do each year. It's hard work for all of us- but honestly- it's the best reward on the planet when a student that could not do XYZ- but after hard work and determination--THEY DO! Always worth it.
I often tell my students that nothing worth doing is easy, which I have found to be true over and over again throughout life. It is a great feeling to see students grow and achieve!
in my first two years of teaching I taught high school social studies classes. In my third year, my second at Beaver River Central School, the department chair approached me and asked if I had ever considered teaching junior high. Why would I ever do that, I thought, I am a global studies teacher, not a U.S. history teacher, but I told him I would think about it. We had a nice discussion and he encouraged me to really give it some thought. I did end up teaching 7th grade social studies for three years and 8th grade science for two. I still consider those years to be some of my most enjoyable years in teaching. I t gave me an opportunity to really develop my teaching skills and I really enjoyed the students.
A life lesson I learned "on accident" is from my mother. I never knew what a tough upbringing she had until I was in my 20s. She never spoke about it or complained about it. We were on vacation one year in my 20s and saw a family fighting. At that point is when she shared with me some of the terrible experiences she had growing up. When I asked her why this is the first time I was hearing this she said she never wanted us to feel bad for her and wanted to make sure she provided us with a better life than she ever had. I will still always cherish that moment- what a selfless woman!! Professionally, I have learned to never judge a book by it's cover. These poor kids have sooooo much going on in their lives and we as educators sometimes have no idea. So never make assumptions, always listen and open your heart. I'm sad to say that this isn't something I've learned just once...it's over and over again. Just take a second and ask and listen!
That is a great lesson, and so true. When I first started teaching I had a student who was rough to handle, and when I took the time to get to know him I can't even imagine the horrible things he had seen and experienced at such a young age. It really is best to share the positive energy, kids and people in general just need to know that they are cared for.
A life lesson that I have learned and that I live my life by is that 'everything happens for a reason'. It helps me in both my personal and professional lives. If something doesn't go the way I want/expect it to,I try and tell myself that it happened for a reason. Many times I don't know the reason, but will hopefully down the line. It has gotten me through some tough times. Professionally, I was very shaken up when I was moved to different grade levels. But looking back, it made me a better teacher because I learned new curriculum and that I could be successful teaching a different grade. I also made some long lasting friendships by being part of different grade level teams. So I believe that I was chosen to move to a new grade level for certain reasons. Personally, 2 years ago, my husband and I were buying a new house. We had sold our house that we lived in and put an offer on a new house. Our offer was accepted, we had a home inspection done, and were moving along. Then, the sellers decided to NOT sell their house. We were dumbfounded and angry. We could have taken them to court but one night I just decided to look at Zillow one more time to see what was available. A house I had LOVED but was out of our price range was staring at me. My husband asked the seller if he would take a certain price that we had in mind, and he said yes!! My dreamhouse!! So I firmly believe that all of the drama with the first house happened for a reason.
I liked your examples. I can imagine being switched between grade levels is very stressful, especially if you're leaving the "comforts" of a grade you have taught for many years. I loved your personal story about the stress of buying a home. I felt like I was reading a book or watching a movie; I really was able to put myself right there! What an exciting end to know you finally ended up with your "dream home." That's truly an example of "everything happens for a reason!"
In my personal life, the greatest lesson I've learned has been how selfless you can be as a mother. Even before having children I felt I was a very generous and kind person, but after having children, I realize how much I give of myself without expecting anything in return. And I love how natural it comes. It isn't something I need to work towards, I suppose it is just my motherly instincts kicking in. No matter how tired I am from sleepless nights, I am always there to do the best I can for my boys. (This isn't something that's easy to say because I do not do it for recognition, but since it is for an assignment I guess I will give myself a pat on the back ;)) I also love all of the life lessons my kids teach me. Their constant questions, and love of learning amazes me. I love that they are so inquisitive about so many things. They make so many teachable moments from their ways of wonder. I told my husband about the section in the reading about Randy Pausch describing finding answers to his questions in encyclopedias. We want to try something similar for our boys since we have such great discussions at the dinner table; I would love for them to start "researching" their answers.
In my professional life I have learned over the years how far a smile, eye contact, and a firm hand shake goes. These never go unnoticed and I feel it is a true measurement of ones honesty and genuine personality.
I have also found so much joy in being a father and raising two boys. There has been so much to learn with one child, then so much to revise and try to do differently with the second. Recognizing that my two boys can be so different has been a personal life lesson.
Growing up my grandma always used to say that everything happens for a reason, and someday you will understand why something happened. I know that sounds cliche, however as I was growing up I truly started to understand what she meant. I loved performing and being on stage since I was a little one, when I got into college for performance I was so excited to be pursuing the dream I had had since I was little. However when I had to switch my major to teaching due to health issues - I began to realize just how much I had to offer people. I love performing, but I was able to help other people by giving them a tool to express themselves. When I was teaching as a high school band director, I had several students express their gratitude, and being able to watch those students grow musically and graduate was an amazing experience. Even though I wanted to perform, I am so thankful now that I switched to become a teacher, because I realized teaching was where I should have been all along.
Growing up my grandma always used to say that everything happens for a reason, and someday you will understand why something happened. I know that sounds cliche, however as I was growing up I truly started to understand what she meant. I loved performing and being on stage since I was a little one, when I got into college for performance I was so excited to be pursuing the dream I had had since I was little. However when I had to switch my major to teaching due to health issues - I began to realize just how much I had to offer people. I love performing, but I was able to help other people by giving them a tool to express themselves. When I was teaching as a high school band director, I had several students express their gratitude, and being able to watch those students grow musically and graduate was an amazing experience. Even though I wanted to perform, I am so thankful now that I switched to become a teacher, because I realized teaching was where I should have been all along.
Professionally, I have learned to look out for other's interests and support their goals. Being supportive in helping people pursue their goals ranging from creating new lessons to finding their professional strength is rewarding. Believing in others and helping them succeed creates a positive work environment and can impact someone's professional life . Personally, I have learned to guard my time much like Randy. I loved his outgoing phone message after he got married. Prioritizing my family and allocating time in a way that honors that is very important to me. Before I agree to participate in an activity I think about if it is time well spent or am I saying yes out of obligation. Being thoughtful and protective of time supports my priorities.
One of the earlier life lessons I learned was when I was working at an ice cream factory and in charge of 20 mechanics, electricians, and refrigeration technicians. I was only 23 years-old and thought I was pretty hot stuff. I was younger than all the guys by a decade at least, and thought because I had managed to get myself into the position I was in through my own hard work, they would automatically respect me. This life lesson was a long and hard one for me. After a couple months of acting like I was important, one of the lead guys, someone I had a lot of respect for, pulled me aside and pointedly told me to lose the attitude, and things would go much smoother for me. It was humbling and caused some serious reflection, but also very helpful in the end. In life, at home, and at school, I try not to take myself very seriously, and give everyone the respect I hope to see from them. I feel this has been especially helpful with students because unlike many of my colleagues, I blank slate every kid that walks through my door, and I give them respect and attention no matter their reputation.
When I was 25 years old, my house mate (who I had been close friends with since sophomore year of high school) came to me and said that he didn't have his rent or utility money for the month. He had lost it all "on a sure thing." What I had to do next was difficult but necessary. I told him he had to pack his stuff and get out. After he left, I went into my room and got out my change jug. I was a waiter at the time and always through all my change into five gallon glass water jug. I dumped it out on the floor that night and rolled over $500 worth of change. Long story short, I remember a particular moment during that night, when I said to myself, "I wish I knew then, what I know now."
Over the course of my life between school and career I’ve learned that it is ok to make mistakes. Most importantly, the mistakes you make should help you learn and better yourself. In the classroom setting, I try to instill this lesson by going over mistakes and helping my students understand why they made the mistake and how they can correct it. I tell them they learn from their mistakes not their achievements but they need to make mistakes to meet achievements.
I think that the very best lesson I have learned is to "love people anyways," and to have grace. The example that I love to use is simple: I could be mad at my friend Laura (who I also coach with) because she is always late. To everything. Or I could decide to understand that she is going to be late, and not let it bother me. Whenever a situation arises that begins to make me feel frustrated or upset, I always try and think of how I would want to be treated if maybe I had done something wrong, and how bad I probably felt already. I was not put on this planet to add to anyone's hurt. So I truly try and have grace for every single person that I encounter.
In my personal life, I would say one of the best lessons I have learned by accident was when my grandmother was sick with Alzheimer’s. It was such a sad experience to see her and those around her suffer the way they did. During that time, I was able to see how a small gesture can make someone’s day. While she was in the Alzheimer’s wing, we met many other families that were going through the same feelings and emotions that my family was. One day, a lady whose huband suffered from Alzheimer’s gave all the families a small plant and a poem. The poem was such a heartfelt and meaningful poem. While we were walking in that day, we saw every family giving more hugs and kisses to their loved ones. I wish I still had a copy of that poem but it reminded the caregivers that their loved ones were still around even though they may “look” or “act” differently than they were used to. The wing was full of love and support. I never knew the ladies name but I will never forget how such a small gesture could impact so many people.
ReplyDeleteProfessionally, I feel like I learned early on that everything is not always what it seems. I had a student who was getting abused and she hid the signs so well it was scary. She did not want anyone to know her situation. One day her counselor came up to me and told me her situation and I broke down. She was the kid who was friends with everyone, kind, smart, and involved in everything. I NEVER would have suspected anything bad was happening to her. She was a person that made it seem like everything in her life was awesome. In those moments, I was able to see that not everything is as it seems and to not “judge a book by its cover.” People all have different ways of dealing with hardships and we should never be quick to judge on how good or badly someone has it because everyone has their own struggles in life.
What a wonderful lesson you shared! I agree you never know how something so small can make such a difference for others.
DeleteThis really touched me. My grandmother suffered from Alzheimer's and now my mother-in-law. It is such a heart-wrenching disease. The smallest, most innocent things sometimes have the greatest impact. Thank you for the reminder!!
DeleteOne of the life lessons I learned was through running. I didn't start running until I was 38 and I have since ran 2 half marathons. It was here that I discovered that no matter how low you are, you always have more in you to give and to keep going. I didn't realize this was a lesson beyond running until I turned 40. My husband was diagnosed with Kidney Cancer right after his mother was diagnosed with ALS. It was an extremely stressful time trying to keep it all together for him, for our kids, for my classroom. I had a moment where it hit... me just like on those long runs where you want to, need to quit and give up but you don't. You go deep inside yourself and say "I am strong and I can do this, I have way more to give". That lesson got me through the toughest times.
ReplyDeleteProfessionally....I can think of some many its hard to choose. Don't be afraid to take chances and try something new. A few years ago I went outside my comfort zone and began teaching classes to adults. I absolutely love it!
It is amazing how strong one can be and how much the mind can truly affect your approach on things. If you can keep a positive mind, I think it helps one conquer many difficult tasks that come your way
DeleteYou are an inspiration!
DeleteA lesson I learned in my personal life is that family comes first. My grandmother taught me this by not only stressing it a million times throughout her lifetime but showed us that in the end, no matter where life takes you, your family should still remain. I think this is such a valuable lesson for others to understand because family is so important and it is different from friendships.
ReplyDeleteProfessionally, I taught myself the lesson that attitude is everything. Having a growth mindset is key, not only for our kiddos but ourselves. We need to carry out our lives positively because we need to model what we want to see in our students. I have had the "pleasure" of working with some negative, Debby-downer teachers and it just makes for a miserable atmosphere.
I agree with being positive role models for our students, Kelsey. Life is too short for anything but! Keep up the good work:)
DeleteI agree with you Kelsey! I believe that attitude is one thing we can control pretty much ALL the time. What your attitude is going into a situation can make all the difference. Or even just your attitude from day to day, the students will feed off of it, good or bad.
DeleteForgot my name again for the comment above....Amy B. :)
DeleteI have learned that sometimes (most of the time) people just need someone who will listen. This is true in both my personal and professional life. So many times when you share an issue or a problem with someone, he or she always seems intent on solving the problem for you or trying to give you advice. I used to do this. In reality, all you really might need is a sounding board or a shoulder to cry on. Throughout the school year I have many students who come to me for help or for advice on issues they’re facing in their lives. It wasn’t until recently that instead of telling them what I would do, I put the ball back in their court with questions like, “What is your heart telling you to do?” or “What do you think is the best course of action?” It’s amazing what kids can come up with on their own when we just give them our time and attention and steer them toward proper coping skills.
ReplyDeleteThe same applies to my personal life. My daughter came to me this week asking to talk with me privately. We finally got the chance tonight and I was amazed at what spilled out of her when it was just the two of us in a quiet place. Again, me giving her my time and undivided attention allowed for her to truly open up and get things off her chest. I am grateful for the trust that my daughter and many of my students put in me and wish nothing but for it to continue well in to the future.
Thank you are for sharing these!
ReplyDeleteA lesson I learned in my personal life, not really by accident, but something I didn't expect, was from becoming a parent. I learned that I am much stronger than I ever thought I was, and my limits are well past what they were when I was just looking out for myself. Taking care of other humans adds a whole new level of complexity and responsibility that is impossible to fathom before you do it. So I guess I learned that you can't really know what other people go through in their own lives unless you experience it yourself.
ReplyDeleteIn my professional life, I am often surprised when talking to former students, what they remember from their years in my class. So I always try to keep in mind that they listen to what I say even when I don't think they are, and I sometimes have a greater effect that I realize at the time.
This comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteI think this is so important- even in the moment, when we think we are talking to hear ourselves talk- they do really listen to us and some even HEAR what we are saying! I always love seeing former students and it's nice when they mention their memories of time spent in our classes.
DeleteI found the same thing to be true when I had children! Wait until you have grandchildren. My daughter had twin and my wife and I spent a good deal of time watching them when they were babies. I can remember some long nights and then keeping up with them all day. It was exhausting, but I loved every minute. Every minute we spend with the children/people we care about is precious time.
DeleteThe best lesson I have learned by accident in my professional life would be that I LOVE working with special education students. I didn't know that it would be two things--EXTREMELY CHALLENGING and EVEN MORE REWARDING. I also love co-teaching. I really can't even contain my excitement when these students show the amount of growth they do each year. It's hard work for all of us- but honestly- it's the best reward on the planet when a student that could not do XYZ- but after hard work and determination--THEY DO! Always worth it.
ReplyDeleteI often tell my students that nothing worth doing is easy, which I have found to be true over and over again throughout life. It is a great feeling to see students grow and achieve!
Deletein my first two years of teaching I taught high school social studies classes. In my third year, my second at Beaver River Central School, the department chair approached me and asked if I had ever considered teaching junior high. Why would I ever do that, I thought, I am a global studies teacher, not a U.S. history teacher, but I told him I would think about it. We had a nice discussion and he encouraged me to really give it some thought. I did end up teaching 7th grade social studies for three years and 8th grade science for two. I still consider those years to be some of my most enjoyable years in teaching. I t gave me an opportunity to really develop my teaching skills and I really enjoyed the students.
ReplyDeleteThose middle grades are challenging but the students have fun as they are ready to learn and have curiosity and enthusiasm.
DeleteA life lesson I learned "on accident" is from my mother. I never knew what a tough upbringing she had until I was in my 20s. She never spoke about it or complained about it. We were on vacation one year in my 20s and saw a family fighting. At that point is when she shared with me some of the terrible experiences she had growing up. When I asked her why this is the first time I was hearing this she said she never wanted us to feel bad for her and wanted to make sure she provided us with a better life than she ever had. I will still always cherish that moment- what a selfless woman!! Professionally, I have learned to never judge a book by it's cover. These poor kids have sooooo much going on in their lives and we as educators sometimes have no idea. So never make assumptions, always listen and open your heart. I'm sad to say that this isn't something I've learned just once...it's over and over again. Just take a second and ask and listen!
ReplyDeleteThat is a great lesson, and so true. When I first started teaching I had a student who was rough to handle, and when I took the time to get to know him I can't even imagine the horrible things he had seen and experienced at such a young age. It really is best to share the positive energy, kids and people in general just need to know that they are cared for.
DeleteA life lesson that I have learned and that I live my life by is that 'everything happens for a reason'. It helps me in both my personal and professional lives. If something doesn't go the way I want/expect it to,I try and tell myself that it happened for a reason. Many times I don't know the reason, but will hopefully down the line. It has gotten me through some tough times.
ReplyDeleteProfessionally, I was very shaken up when I was moved to different grade levels. But looking back, it made me a better teacher because I learned new curriculum and that I could be successful teaching a different grade. I also made some long lasting friendships by being part of different grade level teams. So I believe that I was chosen to move to a new grade level for certain reasons.
Personally, 2 years ago, my husband and I were buying a new house. We had sold our house that we lived in and put an offer on a new house. Our offer was accepted, we had a home inspection done, and were moving along. Then, the sellers decided to NOT sell their house. We were dumbfounded and angry. We could have taken them to court but one night I just decided to look at Zillow one more time to see what was available. A house I had LOVED but was out of our price range was staring at me. My husband asked the seller if he would take a certain price that we had in mind, and he said yes!! My dreamhouse!! So I firmly believe that all of the drama with the first house happened for a reason.
I liked your examples. I can imagine being switched between grade levels is very stressful, especially if you're leaving the "comforts" of a grade you have taught for many years.
DeleteI loved your personal story about the stress of buying a home. I felt like I was reading a book or watching a movie; I really was able to put myself right there! What an exciting end to know you finally ended up with your "dream home." That's truly an example of "everything happens for a reason!"
In my personal life, the greatest lesson I've learned has been how selfless you can be as a mother. Even before having children I felt I was a very generous and kind person, but after having children, I realize how much I give of myself without expecting anything in return. And I love how natural it comes. It isn't something I need to work towards, I suppose it is just my motherly instincts kicking in. No matter how tired I am from sleepless nights, I am always there to do the best I can for my boys. (This isn't something that's easy to say because I do not do it for recognition, but since it is for an assignment I guess I will give myself a pat on the back ;)) I also love all of the life lessons my kids teach me. Their constant questions, and love of learning amazes me. I love that they are so inquisitive about so many things. They make so many teachable moments from their ways of wonder. I told my husband about the section in the reading about Randy Pausch describing finding answers to his questions in encyclopedias. We want to try something similar for our boys since we have such great discussions at the dinner table; I would love for them to start "researching" their answers.
ReplyDeleteIn my professional life I have learned over the years how far a smile, eye contact, and a firm hand shake goes. These never go unnoticed and I feel it is a true measurement of ones honesty and genuine personality.
I have also found so much joy in being a father and raising two boys. There has been so much to learn with one child, then so much to revise and try to do differently with the second. Recognizing that my two boys can be so different has been a personal life lesson.
DeleteGrowing up my grandma always used to say that everything happens for a reason, and someday you will understand why something happened. I know that sounds cliche, however as I was growing up I truly started to understand what she meant. I loved performing and being on stage since I was a little one, when I got into college for performance I was so excited to be pursuing the dream I had had since I was little. However when I had to switch my major to teaching due to health issues - I began to realize just how much I had to offer people. I love performing, but I was able to help other people by giving them a tool to express themselves. When I was teaching as a high school band director, I had several students express their gratitude, and being able to watch those students grow musically and graduate was an amazing experience. Even though I wanted to perform, I am so thankful now that I switched to become a teacher, because I realized teaching was where I should have been all along.
ReplyDeleteGrowing up my grandma always used to say that everything happens for a reason, and someday you will understand why something happened. I know that sounds cliche, however as I was growing up I truly started to understand what she meant. I loved performing and being on stage since I was a little one, when I got into college for performance I was so excited to be pursuing the dream I had had since I was little. However when I had to switch my major to teaching due to health issues - I began to realize just how much I had to offer people. I love performing, but I was able to help other people by giving them a tool to express themselves. When I was teaching as a high school band director, I had several students express their gratitude, and being able to watch those students grow musically and graduate was an amazing experience. Even though I wanted to perform, I am so thankful now that I switched to become a teacher, because I realized teaching was where I should have been all along.
ReplyDeleteProfessionally, I have learned to look out for other's interests and support their goals. Being supportive in helping people pursue their goals ranging from creating new lessons to finding their professional strength is rewarding. Believing in others and helping them succeed creates a positive work environment and can impact someone's professional life .
ReplyDeletePersonally, I have learned to guard my time much like Randy. I loved his outgoing phone message after he got married. Prioritizing my family and allocating time in a way that honors that is very important to me. Before I agree to participate in an activity I think about if it is time well spent or am I saying yes out of obligation. Being thoughtful and protective of time supports my priorities.
One of the earlier life lessons I learned was when I was working at an ice cream factory and in charge of 20 mechanics, electricians, and refrigeration technicians. I was only 23 years-old and thought I was pretty hot stuff. I was younger than all the guys by a decade at least, and thought because I had managed to get myself into the position I was in through my own hard work, they would automatically respect me. This life lesson was a long and hard one for me. After a couple months of acting like I was important, one of the lead guys, someone I had a lot of respect for, pulled me aside and pointedly told me to lose the attitude, and things would go much smoother for me. It was humbling and caused some serious reflection, but also very helpful in the end. In life, at home, and at school, I try not to take myself very seriously, and give everyone the respect I hope to see from them. I feel this has been especially helpful with students because unlike many of my colleagues, I blank slate every kid that walks through my door, and I give them respect and attention no matter their reputation.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was 25 years old, my house mate (who I had been close friends with since sophomore year of high school) came to me and said that he didn't have his rent or utility money for the month. He had lost it all "on a sure thing." What I had to do next was difficult but necessary. I told him he had to pack his stuff and get out. After he left, I went into my room and got out my change jug. I was a waiter at the time and always through all my change into five gallon glass water jug. I dumped it out on the floor that night and rolled over $500 worth of change. Long story short, I remember a particular moment during that night, when I said to myself, "I wish I knew then, what I know now."
ReplyDeleteOver the course of my life between school and career I’ve learned that it is ok to make mistakes. Most importantly, the mistakes you make should help you learn and better yourself. In the classroom setting, I try to instill this lesson by going over mistakes and helping my students understand why they made the mistake and how they can correct it. I tell them they learn from their mistakes not their achievements but they need to make mistakes to meet achievements.
ReplyDeleteI think that the very best lesson I have learned is to "love people anyways," and to have grace. The example that I love to use is simple: I could be mad at my friend Laura (who I also coach with) because she is always late. To everything. Or I could decide to understand that she is going to be late, and not let it bother me.
ReplyDeleteWhenever a situation arises that begins to make me feel frustrated or upset, I always try and think of how I would want to be treated if maybe I had done something wrong, and how bad I probably felt already. I was not put on this planet to add to anyone's hurt. So I truly try and have grace for every single person that I encounter.