2020 gave us time to reflect on what’s truly important and
create a vision of what we want to become and do. So what have I learned in
2020?
1. Hard work never stops. Gosh, how
I’ve loved watching my son’s journey as he leans into his goal of becoming an
engineer. He pivoted when his summer intern position was COVID canceled; he
took a couple of classes instead so he “could use time wisely”. In the fall
when others stayed home to go virtual, he remained at the University of Michigan
to do blended learning and continue with labs. Along came September's job fair, Austin
engaged and recently accepted an engineer position with an international
company! He will be working in Chicago the week after he graduates in May 2021.
At a time when others are finding it hard to locate work, this young man has
secured his place in his dream job; to say we are proud would be an
understatement. Hard work and hard decisions continue to pay off.
2. Different isn’t necessarily bad.
There isn’t a life that hasn’t been asked to go somewhat virtual in 2020. Each
educator has endured learning how to quickly pivot to teaching on a virtual platform.
With this came different ways of thinking and many failures/opportunities along the way as we
looked for how to make this work better for our learners. Educators have been
pushed like never before to adapt and change learning environments. Much of
what we’ve learned along the way has actually changed our thinking about the
importance of student voice, collaboration, and ownership. Many educators have
learned that technology is a powerful resource, but we must use it differently than
we have in the past. Cheers to the many collaborative spaces that have emerged from
teachers trying new resources! You bet it has been hard, but oh the moments of
joy when different worked well for students.
3. Cheerleaders in life are important.
We all need people who make us feel like we can do it and this year definitely had
us leaning into those people. I hope you have at least one person (if not many)
who fill that role for you. For me, my spouse is a voice who always helps
remind me of my purpose and helps me brainstorm ways to move forward. He is
such a great source of encouragement and positivity when I am struggling. Ricky
is constantly my rock in this world that is full of challenges, obstacles, and
plenty of reasons to be discouraged. He reminds me daily that we get more in
life when we do for others and listen closely to what may help someone along his/her
journey. If you haven’t asked someone lately, “How can I help you?” I challenge
you to start there and see where it takes you.
4. Gratitude and hope make a difference.
These just might be the greatest “gifts” we can offer others. We acknowledge
fear and grief, but we must seek hope and gratitude. We cherish our family and
friends. We build connections rather than fall into the trap of isolation. We
show ourselves the same compassion we’re showing others. We remind ourselves
that even though some of the losses will stay with us, this situation is finite
– it will end and we will recover to move forward. Our conversations need to
turn to one of opportunity – action we can take and positive impact we can
have. We remember what we are thankful for and hope to see value in all the
little details around us daily. Let’s make sure the good stands out; let’s
become noticers of the good in our lives!
May 2021 be a year where being grateful resides at the forefront of my heart,
thoughts, words, and actions. I want to live with abundant hope. I want to work
hard and do for others along the way.
