Consent

Yesterday I was pondering the term ‘Consent’. I say term because the particular word describes a concept and the same meaning as a verb and a noun:  Permission for something to happen.  I was thinking about it because on Thursday I arrived at work just like any other day.  Began my morning ritual of organizing my thoughts on the most pressing items to tackle. I wasn’t at work long before I began feeling really poor.  Not in an emotional sense, but a general unwell feeling physically. After about 20 minutes, things weren’t improving, they were degrading, so I decided to inform the team that I was bowing out for the day. I bring this up not to troll for some sort of sympathy, but to lead into my point about consent. I know many of you share my feelings when I say, I hate not being at school. Understanding this, it is the season however for all kinds of viral infections. This year I have experienced a few, which makes me even more frustrated. That feeling doesn’t help. We all catch the cold, flu, or have life happen to us in adversarial ways. I usually have to coach myself out of irritation by giving myself consent. Simply put, I give myself consent to rest, consent to rehabilitate, and consent to revive. This idea of self consent is unusual, but not new. It is about releasing and treating your own needs and limits with respect. It is the embodiment of the idea of actually ‘taking care’ when you hear the salutation of “Take care”.  We have to understand that when we do not give ourselves consent to recover, we are operating as less than. Using a sports analogy, we are ‘playing hurt’ or ‘not at 100%’.  Just remember, 50% of you is still only 50% of you. We can’t give 120% like some sports figures would like us all to think. There is only 100% and when it is cut down, we are left with less than. Simple math. With all that, I consent to being well and I wish the same for all of you. Have the most excellent weekend and stay dry. Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue Ant Clemons and Justin Timberlake - Better Days).

Until next time...

Thanksgiving Break

We made it to Thanksgiving break. Whew! What a time for a break.  It couldn’t come at a better time. Though the holiday season begins with Halloween, it certainly speeds up after Thanksgiving. Though I love all the holidays, Thanksgiving is my favorite.  Of course the food has its appeal, but for me it is more about the people. It’s a time where we can pause, take a moment to truly slow down and give thanks for everything and everyone around us. Growing up, I always remember my parents inviting people over for a big Thanksgiving feast. Many times, these people were Airmen from the local Castle Air Force Base. They were a long way from home and their families, so my parents welcomed them with open arms. Due to the kindness of my parents, these people became part of my extended family and are spread out all over the country. When I get the chance to talk to them, they always remember the Thanksgiving we spent together and the impact of the gesture. Because of that, I understand that giving thanks means being thankful for those around us. It is taking the time to reflect on how important the bonds are that we make in the relationships that we build. It is more than just a meal. Soon, Thanksgiving will be over and we will be dropped into the middle of “Tis the Season” where stores will be packed with people. Temperaments will rise as temperatures drop. Until then, I’m simply going to kick up my heels a bit, be thankful, and enjoy those people around me. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and an exceptional week. Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue Pharrella - “Happy”) .

Until next time...

Costumes

It was so wonderful seeing the kids dressed in all their costumes on Halloween.  What a wonderful time! I know the holiday is not the favorite of many sometimes, teens can get into mischief, but I enjoy the night.  Though I have never been a costume guy, I can appreciate those that participate.  The time and effort is commendable. The truth is, it is a comfort thing. Costumes always make me want to fidget. I’m not saying I would never wear one, I’m just saying that it would have to meet the primary standard of comfort. So enough about my hang up on costumes, let’s get back to the point. Just for the record, I know the evening is for the kids, but I enjoy seeing the teens that visit my house with an open bag. Some say the teens should not involve themselves in ‘Trick or treating’.  I feel that when they are visiting homes filling their bags with treats, they certainly are not elsewhere involved in some undesirable behavior. If they want to hold on to being a kid for a few more years, why not. The time is fleeting and they shouldn’t surrender to adulthood too quickly. Enjoy being a kid. In due time, young adulthood will emerge and remove them from our doorsteps only to give way to more youth. More fun costumes worn by timid little ones.  Just the thought brings a smile to my face.  It truly is a great evening to kick off our holiday season. Have the most excellent weekend. Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue Corey Hart - “Never Surrender”.

Until next time...

Whatever will be, will be...

Does anyone know what ever happened to the times of ‘Qué será, será’?  I ask that for a very specific reason however, I need to give some background. When I was young and impressionable, my parents would regularly tune one of our four television channels to the famed Doris Day Show. The program was a favorite in my house for two reasons, my parents were big fans of Doris Day and San Francisco, the setting of the show. I have a vivid memory of seeing Doris Day in the opening credits jumping from a cable car as the song played. Thoughts of the show itself invoke good feelings for me however my memories of specific items are limited at best. The laissez-faire attitude that everything will be alright brings me to my point. As we grow into adulthood, we sometimes forget that our outlook can depend on our attitude.  As the song promotes, “Whatever will be, will be’. The future’s not ours to see, Qué será, será” The point hits home with me. So many times, like so many others, I fuss about what I cannot control. In my personal life and in my professional life, I do my best in any situation to meticulously plan for success while at the same time prepare for the alternative. I certainly never just say “Whatever will be, will be.”  Those days are gone and I’m not really sure when they vanished. Have the most excellent weekend. Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue Doris Day - “Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)”.

Until next time...

Keeping the Faith

We have reached the middle of October and the weather is about to turn. We all know the seasons in the Valley are limited.  We go from hot to mildly hot, then shift to cold and wet fog cold. We really don’t get the benefit of the four seasons as the rest of the Country.  Though this is the case, we will reminisce about the weather just as much as we reminisce about everything else.  Yes, when we were younger, the weather was perfect.  The Hall of Fame singer has an autobiographical song about reminiscing, “Keeping the Faith”.  In the song, he reminds us that the “good ole days weren't always good, And tomorrow ain't as bad as it seems.”  So true.  When we reminisce, it is human nature to remember the things that were good and discard all the bad. Sometimes, bad memories stick and unfortunately, only time will heal that pain. Because of this, it is so important for us to engineer great memories for our students. The negative ones will be thrown out because even the most challenging student desires good memories. Even in the difficult times for our students, we have to remind them that “tomorrow isn’t as bad as it seems.” This is simply a measure of hope.  Keeping the faith that their dreams are still achievable. So just remember, the good ole days weren’t always good and tomorrow ain’t as bad as it seems. Have the most excellent weekend. Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue Billy Joel - “Keeping the Faith” ). 

Until next time...

Autumn Serenade

As the first week of October passes by, we get to welcome the sights and smells of Fall.  In my household, it seems like as soon as we pass Labor Day, my wife begins bringing out the fall decor.  She sweeps all the summer beach decor and replaces it with the colors of Fall. I tried this year to appeal, considering it was over 100 degrees outside.  It just didn’t seem right. When it is that hot outside, I can’t even think about fall, only indoor air conditioning and the colors that surround our backyard pool. Then, Starbucks brought out their pumpkin spice and my attempts to appeal were over. My family loves pumpkin spice. Pumpkin this and pumpkin that is regularly on order.  I am not a big fan of pumpkin spice myself.  I guess my existence certainly follows the nursery rhyme with a small revision. I’m truly made of snips and snails, and puppy dogs' tails and the rest of my family is no doubt made of pumpkin spice, and everything nice. They compliment me and I know I am lucky because they let me hang around. All kidding aside, fall is a wonderful time of year, even with the heat. When I’m not at a school function, I get to spend my time at kids soccer games , band reviews, taking walks to the park, and just being Dad. So if I need to endure the continual smell of pumpkin spice in the house, I’ll take it for the team. Have an exceptional weekend. Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue John Coltrane - “Autumn Serenade” ).

Until next time...

Idle Tuesdays

The arrival of Homecoming week brings with it so many fun activities for staff and students. This one however was different for me.  This week, I was given the gift of reflection. On Tuesday, an elderly gentleman entered my office. Normally, when anyone from the community comes to speak to me, it is regarding a complaint, so I was dutifully prepared. As he entered, he immediately introduced himself. He was carrying a ball cap with which he referenced. The cap was from the Central Valley Honor Flight. He specifically came to the High School just to tell me about his trip.  Born in June of 1936, he was supposed to graduate from Selma High in 1955. He said because of his behavior and his interactions with a few difficult teachers, he never graduated. He dropped out to enlist in the Air Force in 1954.  His service took him overseas to Europe and Asia, but he remained a proud Selma Bear at heart. After leaving the service, he became a bus driver and later a trainer for Greyhound in Las Vegas. After retiring, he returned to Fresno to live because his family home in Selma had long been sold. So now to the reason for the story and the bottom line of his visit.  He told me that he knows he only has a short time remaining in his life, and he wanted to come to the high school to apologize. He simply wanted to deliver the message of regret. He continued by saying that although all his teachers have now passed away, he wanted to let me know they did not deserve his behavior. He did not share his health condition, and it was not my intent to ask, but there was sincerity in his eyes and his words that seared me to the core. As he left, I thanked him for his service and for the visit. Though his name will remain confidential, I will forever remember his impact. Let that be another lesson for me that I will never know what is going to walk into my office on some idle Tuesday.  Have a great weekend. Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue Green Day - "Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)". 

Until next time...

Parkinson's Law

We are now in the latter part of September and with it comes some really beautiful weather. The mild temperatures are met with street fairs and balloon festivals all across the Country. In our local area, this weekend is the Clovis Balloon Festival. Oftentimes with my family, we head out to watch and chase the balloons. Every year when I see the massive balloons floating through the air, I admire the serenity of the flight.  Many times as they fly overhead, I can hear the voices of the people above, or my kids can shout a kind hello as they pass above. Such a cool thing to see.  It is also very much in stark contrast to our profession. Many times, we are not surrounded by serenity or a floating direction. We, on the other hand, deal with Parkinson’s Law.  I am not talking about the unfortunate condition that many are stricken with, but the law of work and time.  Parkinson’s law states "work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion." Yes, that is our life in education.  There is never enough time. That is why it is so important to work efficiently or as my father would say, “work smarter, not harder.”  When you find the answer to Parkinson’s Law, please tell me. I’m sure my kids would like me to chase more balloons. Have a great weekend. Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue Christopher Cross - "Sailing"). 

Until next time...

Positive Mental Attitude

Today I began thinking about the famous quote from Henry Ford, “Whether you think you can or can't, you are right.”  That saying has impacted me for years.  I believe I first heard it from my track coach in high school, Mr. Ambrozini, or Coach Ambro as we called him. Coach was always talking to us about overcoming the mental challenges of life and sport. He preached the concept of a strong mind and body, in that order. He would always use his version of the Henry Ford quote by saying “the second you think you can’t do something, you are right”, because the brain would make it so. His teaching has impacted my whole life. As an athlete, the idea that a positive mental attitude can bring about positive physical aspects was so important to me. I tried to avoid negative thoughts, yet, when it came to performance, the thoughts crept in my head. Though the positive mindset was there, the confidence to back it up had not yet arrived. I apply that to our students.  We can ask them to be positive about themselves, their lives, or their future, but until we can instill confidence, the positivity is only a facade. We have to build and secure small wins to engineer their confidence. Then help them continue with positivity because, in the end, the person that thinks they can, does. Have a remarkable weekend. Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue Jason Mraz - "Have It All").

Until next time...

Lean Into It

The other day I was enjoying a video with my kids. The movie was the animated picture “Vivo”. I bring this up because one of the songs references the attitude resiliency. Not only is the song catchy, but the lyrics have deep meaning:  Living through the challenges are thrown at us. To borrow a phrase from the Marines, improvise, adapt and overcome. One of the lyrics states, “And all I can do when the tank’s run dry, is see what’s in reserve. And all I can do when the plans break down, is stay on my feet.” The more I thought about it, the more I thought about our profession.  When our tanks run dry, we somehow find a bit more in reserve to take on the next challenge. Many of us face 12 to 15 hour days on activity nights, and though fatigue sets in, we find more in reserve to push through and finish the night. How many times have you planned a lesson that broke down at the very beginning?  You could not just stop and go home. You have to improvise, stay on your feet, adapt to the situation and push through until the end of the period.  The art of being resilient: being able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions. No doubt that is what we learn in education. Another lyric in the song is my favorite, “All I can do when the road bends, is lean into the curve.” Not only taking what is coming at you, but actively responding with enthusiasm. In other words, bring it on. Have a most exceptional weekend. Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue Lin-Manuel Miranda and Ynairaly Simo - Keep The Beat).

Until next time...

See it from their eyes

With the arrival of September, we are usually met with more moderate temperatures, however, that is not the case. We find ourselves right in the middle of a heatwave with the triple digits and incredibly bad air quality. Throw into the mix the stress of the start of school for students and all it becomes much easier for a temper to flare. Understanding this, we should more than ever take a moment to breathe, and focus on kindness. We all know kindness works and it is the one thing we often forget. Just a smile in the hallway, good morning or good afternoon greeting, can make a difference for a student. When we think about our interactions with students, we really do not know their stories. When they enter our rooms or offices, we simply focus on our primary reason for the interaction. I know I’m guilty of it. I have to remind myself daily to slow down with my interaction and see it from their eyes. From a student's perspective, talking to an adult can be intimidating. We also know that every student comes with a backstory, as we all do. The difference being as adults, we understand how to compartmentalize so we can keep our emotions in check, most of the time. Every morning, during my time of reflection, I review my interactions. I take note of the things done right and I challenge myself to improve where I failed. I will always try to be better, do better, and make a difference. Every morning I wake, give thanks that I have been given another day to get it right. Have an exceptional weekend. This weekend is going to be blistering. Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue Tim McGraw - Humble and Kind). 

Until next time...

Change

Welcome back staff to a new year. The beginning of the year always makes me reflect on why I work in the best possible profession. Every year we are met with the opportunity to change. We get new rosters of students and sometimes new policies. We get the wonderful opportunity to reinvent ourselves every August. That very situation places change at the forefront. Understanding that change is a big reason for stress. It can be uncomfortable. The change can also present us the opportunity to escape the ruts of the day-to-day grind. Though change is difficult, we need to embrace it, just as our students do. It is a well-known fact that growth begins to happen when we approach the boundaries of our comfort zone. I see it as an opportunity to grow. Every August, we ask that of our students. They arrive at school with the hope of a great year unfortunately, hope is not a strategy. We need to continue to meticulously plan for their success. It is important for us to show up daily and give our best to our students. Our students should expect it. Our parents do expect it. We collectively expect it of ourselves. Parents send us all they have. They do not keep the ‘good ones’ at home and send the others. All that being stated, the opening of school is always intense and the August heat has not been kind to us. As we embrace everything new and settle in for the long haul, it is important to take some time for yourself. Take a moment every now and then and just breathe. Know that as educators, we are in a pretty good space. As professionals, we get to mold the youth of America. That idea remains powerful. I wish you the best school year you have ever had. After such a hot and busy week, we all need some rest. Have a super weekend.…Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue Sheryl Crow – A Change Would Do You Good).

Until next time...

Lifelong Learning

As this is the last update of the school year, I usually take some time to reflect.  As a school administrator, the end of the school year brings frantic times and heightened emotions. This is due, in part, because of the finality of the year. Semester grades, summer plans, and graduation all play into the stress of the times. This stress is felt by everyone, students, parents, teachers, and administrators. I have experienced, seen, and endured all types of emotions and behaviors. I have been yelled at and called names, by students, parents, and teachers alike. I have been threatened plenty of times and once even assaulted at an extracurricular event when emotions are running at their highest. Through it all, I have never held a grudge. I understand that lighting strikes the highest point. Those interactions help me to be more reflective. They help me to provide a measured response. I know I am not perfect in the slightest imagination, but I try to be the best I can be. I reconcile my feelings with every interaction that I experience. In my life I don’t want to be the best school administrator in the world, but I strive to be the best for the world, starting with my school. In my role, my educational journey never ends. I get to be an educational leader, but most importantly, I get to be a lifelong learner from the people around me and experiences that I have daily. That is what powers me. My hope is that others can find their spark as I have.  Life is an exceptional journey.  Have a wonderful summer break.  See you in August.…Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue No One Is to Blame – Howard Jones). 

Until next time...

Find the Balance

We have made it Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial beginning of Summer. The much awaited 3-day weekend will provide everyone a time to rest. Of course, we all have tons of stuff to do and if you are anything like me, the list is long. I always try to limit myself to the items that I know I can get done so I feel successful. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always work. I need to do better about putting my foot down on behalf of rest. I know the science is clear on rest. Stress takes a toll on our physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing.  If we don’t get the rest we need, our productivity can diminish, and we become walking zombies. We all know this to be true. Weekends provide a nice break from the rat race. When we rest or take a break, our mood improves, which also helps to lower your stress hormone levels, and the cycle continues. Add to it some quality time with friends and/or family and a recipe for a happy weekend has been created. For me, I like balance.  Though I know I need the rest, I also like to be outside.  I enjoy going places and doing things but, I have to balance the to-do list that is always on the back of my mind. That, at times, is very difficult to engineer. I simply can’t shut off my brain.  Therefore I have to tell myself to get a small task completed, then take a rest. I have to find the balance. All life is a game of balance. With that, my hope is that everyone can find their balance this weekend and get some rest. After such a hot and busy week, we all need it. Have a super weekend.…Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue Eagles – Take It Easy).

Until next time...

Navigate the Trees

The other day I was reading an article in Skiing magazine. The author was discussing how to ski through trees. As a skier myself, I never really subscribed to the idea of skiing around things that could really hurt me if I hit one. I was always intrigued by the level of skill it took to not only navigate through the trees, but the power it took to push through the powder moving at what would seem an unsafe pace down the hill. I always thought the danger that exists far outweighed the enjoyment. I would much rather partake in fun on a freshly groomed slope. That being the case, the idea presented in the article was about the distinct skill of navigation as simply a mindset. Instead of the focus being on all the trees in the surrounding area, the skier focuses on the path.  The brain cannot process the negative. When the skier says to themself, “Don’t look at the trees”, the trees are all they see. So the mindset is to look at the path, which is the brain processing the positive and not the negative. Applying that concept further, we should focus on what we want to achieve in our lives, not the doom and gloom of the opposite outcome. Just as the skier focuses on the path to see the path. If we tell ourselves to not look at the pitfalls, we will only see the pitfalls. Our brains will not process the negative. Understanding that, I choose to be more like the skier in the trees and choose the path. Just remember the concept, the next time you want someone to think of something, just tell them not to think about it. Have a wonderful weekend.…Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue Corey Hart – Never Surrender).

Until next time...

The Flying Machine

The middle of May is upon us and as the school year nears the end, the stress is mounting.  Students are looking toward summer and staff are just searching for a break. During stressful times, it is so important for us all to understand, this too shall pass.  Hall of Fame recording artist James Taylor had a song ‘Fire and Rain’ in which he sings about several of life’s struggles. In the  third verse of the song, he sings about a band he was once in called “The Flying Machine''.  The band obviously was not successful and in the final line, he sings, “Sweet dreams and flying machines in pieces on the ground.” The point is that stress and failure are a part of life.  James Taylor could have given up, and we would have all missed out of decades of his iconic music. He chose to persevere and now is part of musical history. The message in all this is that as educators, we get tired, stressed, and overwhelmed at times, but our obligation is to keep hope alive for our students.  We really don’t know which ones will turn out to be the next James Taylor, but we do know they are all somebody and want to be somebody.  That is really all that needs to be said. Take some time this weekend to enjoy the outdoors. The weather will be warm and beautiful.…Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue James Taylor – Fire and Rain).

Until next time...

Thirds

With every week that goes by, we move closer to the last day of school and we all know that is when things begin to become more frantic. Finishing the year strong is merged almost seamlessly with planning for next year. That is part of the reason why things are so rushed and busy for all of us. Add to the mix the family obligations, and we have the potential for significant fatigue. Part of my philosophy on life is the idea of thirds. If taken generally, we spend a third of our twenty-four hour day at work, a third at recreation or leisure, and the final third at rest or sleep. For any of us, if those thirds collide or overlap, there is potential for conflict or stress. This is not to say that we need to compartmentalize our lives as such, but we should be cognizant of the idea. If our rest is interrupted by our leisure activities, we will no doubt feel the impact at work. You get the idea. Therefore, it is important to take the time and have focused intention in all three parts. Get rest, take care of family needs, and only then, can you have complete focus at work. If you are somewhere thinking about something else then you are not 100% devoted to the task. The concept is simple, half of your attention is only half of your intention. That will make what you are trying to accomplish so much more difficult. With that food for thought, I wish you all a fantastic weekend. Rest, recreate, and refresh for the week ahead.  The weather will be perfect for it…Go BEARS!…Rise UP! (cue Cars – Shake It Up).

Until next time...

You Matter

As we come to the end of April, we find ourselves starting the end of the year push to the finish. This is the time that is a bit more stressful with State testing and students turning in tons of work that needs to be graded. Just a bit more hurried. During this busy time, it is important to slow down and reflect on how much you matter. You matter as a person, a professional, and as a mentor to our students. As a matter of fact, there is plenty of data to support how much you do matter. Studies have shown that students perceived increased teacher support showed corresponding decreases in depressive symptoms and increases in self-esteem. Couple that with the studies that show the positive relationship you build with students can overcome the influence of a negative home environment. WOW! Your impact can be significant. Being an educator is not easy and the reward is not realized until some idle Saturday when you run into a former student in the grocery store. For those that have had this pleasure, that student will walk up to you and tell you how much you influenced their life for the better.  There are few gifts greater than that. You are changing lives. Have a glorious weekend…Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue Manic Monday – Bangles).

Until next time...

Sisyphus

Now that Spring Break has passed, it is the time for all educators to buckle up for the final push. This can be the most impactful time for our students though it sometimes feels like we are repeating the same phrases: Get your work turned in, study more, read your study guide, and others similar. Do you ever feel like you are living the Greek Tragedy of Sisyphus that is found in Homer’s Iliad?  Though you may not remember every detail of the story, you remember the visual of Sisyphus pushing the big boulder up the hill.  As soon as he neared the top, the boulder would roll back down to the bottom. This action was to be repeated for eternity as was the design by Zeus. So my question is, why didn’t Sisyphus just quit?  The backstory is that Zeus wouldn’t let him. Though Sisyphus was sentenced for eternity, there was hope that Zues would allow him to push the boulder over the hill, freeing him from the sentence. The power of HOPE. As educators, we are often repeating things over and over again.  Though this is the case, we have to remember to keep hope alive for all. When all hope is lost, then true tragedy is realized. Hang in there and keep pushing the rock up the hill. Have a wonderful weekend…Go BEARS!…RiseUP! (cue Lean On Me – Bill Withers).

Until next time...

Helping Hand

This week, I celebrated another birthday and every year as the annual day approaches, I always find myself being more and more secretive. This is not for the idea of tacking on another year, but for the awkwardness I feel being showered with kindness just because I was born. It always makes me feel a little uncomfortable. This year, my secret got out and eventually the kind gestures were delivered. I began to reflect on that feeling I experienced and began to strategize how I can repay the kindness or live up to the respect that has been directed my way. My mind trailed off onto many different tangents. It didn’t take long before I mentally slowed and stopped on the basic idea of kindness.  Kindness doesn’t need a response.  Just as I stopped to help the milk delivery person that dumped crates of milk off his hand truck.  I rushed over and began helping him pick them up. He told me I didn’t have to do it, which is exactly the point.  I didn’t have to, but I wanted to.  He was alone trying to frantically pick up three crates of chocolate milk that was dumped over and strewn about.  I helped because I wanted to do so. It was the kind thing to do. If I can inspire others to do the same, then this world will be a better place. With that thought, I wish you all a wonderful Spring Break. Be exceptional! Have a great week…RiseUP! (cue Stand By You – Rachel Platten).

Until next time...

Chamber Dinner

Last night I had the pleasure of attending the Chamber of Commerce community service awards dinner. It was nice seeing so many people being the best version of themselves.  By saying the best version, I am in no way implying that the people are in some way fake or not ‘real’ at other times.  Quite the contrary. All of the people that presented, were acknowledged, or award winners, had a common thread. They were just real down to earth people. They weren’t signing a shoe contract or attempting to sell any of us an endorsed product. They were, however, devoted to their community and giving what they could to make it better. They are ‘in the game’. Involved. Trying to make a difference. Sometimes failing at the attempt, but trying nonetheless. Tirelessly. I was humbled. For me, events like these are great motivators.  They invigorate me and challenge me to be better. I try on a daily basis to be ‘more than’ and not ‘less than’ at work and at home. Each of us have versions of ourselves, the good and the bad. Which version do you see in the mirror? Last night on the way home I had time to reflect. I reaffirmed my belief and steadfast decision to be ‘more than’. I leave you with that thought…have a great weekend…RiseUP! (cue This Is It – Kenny Loggins).

Until next time...

Time in a Bottle

The other day my wife and kids were in the drive-through at the local fast food restaurant. My son called me just before they were ready to order, to ask if I would like anything. I told him “I would like something” At this point, I could hear my wife beginning the order in the background as my son said, “Dad wants something”.  I knew the next question before it was asked. Frustrated by the time crunch of waiting for me on the phone, my wife then asked, “What does your Dad want?”  I said, “Tell Mom I want a large bottle of time.”  My son responded with “What?”  My wife overheard then said, “Oh my gosh!” She followed with, “He isn’t getting anything!”  As I laughed, I thought to myself, wouldn’t it be great if we really could capture time in a bottle? Just have it to spend wisely or savor like an excellent meal. Time is so precious. If you are anything like me, it is wasted on ridiculous pursuits. I often don’t have enough minutes in the day yet, upon review with hindsight, I know where I can do better or try to be better with time. Being better is not always pressing my nose to the grindstone, so to speak.  It means taking the time to talk less, listen more, and share my time with those around me. With that sentiment, I hope you have a joyous weekend…RiseUP! (cue Time in a Bottle - Jim Croce – Jim Croce).

Until next time...

The Idea of Hope

Have you ever had a deep thought about the idea of hope?  The yearning for something to happen? In this piece, I am pondering the concept of both the desire of an expected outcome as well as, the older meaning of trust. I began to think of hope as a commodity. More like a tangible thing that I can possess. Seeing the unrest in the world and the horrific images coming to us from Europe brings hope to the forefront of my mind. The hope that conflict such as this never reaches my home. The hope that people have a right to be safe. I can’t imagine the helplessness many feel when they are thrust into that situation. Then I began to think about our students. Are there times when they feel lost and helpless? Do they feel that no matter what they do in class they are never going to pass? That feeling can quickly lead to a loss of hope. We have to help them defend against that by refocusing them on the positive. Next, encourage them to believe in themselves. Finally, surround them with positivity. Sometimes the most simple thing is an extension of kindness. It may be only the first step in a long journey, but we can help make it to rekindle hope. Just remember, we never know our impact until it has already been made. With that thought nugget, I hope you have a most excellent weekend…Go BEARS! (cue Kyrie (song) – Mr. Mister).

Until next time...

Motivation

This week I continue with the subject of motivation.  Some days, motivation is hard to find yet on others it finds you. This ebb and flow of motivation can be disruptive. In my life, I have found the best way to be motivated is to set goals. Real goals. Not the unreachable ones that need a lottery win, but the real tangible ones you can achieve. Every time I set goals and achieve them, I have renewed motivation for more. Though somewhere between the summit and my progress I experience several bumps and detours, my goal keeps me going. I try not to allow motivation to dwindle, but it is difficult at times. We humans are all hard wired to identify the negative. (We can credit evolution for that). Some can do this better than others and fortunately for them, through conscious effort, those thoughts can be redirected. How many times have any of you been in a difficult situation and suddenly, doubt builds. It creeps into your mind and begins the process of unraveling all the positive thoughts you had in your abilities. It happens to everyone. The famous test pilot General Chuck Yeager was once asked if he ever had butterflies before a flight and his response was, “Yes, but my butterflies fly in formation.” The bottom line is that we need to control both our thoughts and our emotions. Keep your energy focused on what you want to obtain. Sometimes, it is easier said than done. Have a super weekend! (cue When in Rome – The Promise).

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Will or Skill

In a meeting the other day, the idea of motivation was discussed. That is a really difficult subject because it is different for everyone. Yes, there are motivations that can generally move the masses when it comes to products, that is why commercials exist. Individually, motivation comes in so many different ways. We know there are intrinsic and extrinsic motivations for all of us however, we should always be asking ourselves, “Am I unwilling or unable?” There are some things in life that no matter the motivation, I am unwilling to do…like bungee jumping or swimming with sharks…simply not going to happen. I am unwilling. Then there are those things that I am unable to do. For example, I cannot perform calculus, or surgery, or bake a macaron. I do not have the ability or the skill level to do such tasks. No matter how many times someone asks me, I will not be able to complete the task. It is therefore not my will but my skill. Understanding this, I know our students have the same situations. Though they have things that will motivate them both intrinsically and extrinsically, even the most motivated student will fail at a task if we do not teach them the skill. So are they unwilling or unable?  Is it will or skill? Those questions I will leave it to you to decide. Enjoy your weekend…Go BEARS! (cue Kenny Loggins - This Is It).

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In a Hurry

This morning I was pondering the idea of being in a rush. How much time do we really get to make up when we find ourselves in a fit of panic over being in a hurry? Are we more efficient when such a state of mind exists? I certainly do not have the empirical data to support my position, but it can’t be good. For the majority of us, when in such a mindset, our decision making ability is impacted and sometimes results in a poor choice. Time however, is relative. When people can slow down their perception of time, they are thought to be different.  We see this often in great athletes. The great ones experience the game at a slower pace relative to their teammates. This allows them to make better decisions in the face of crazy odds. The reality is they are not really slowing down time. They simply have a relative perception of time giving them the ability to see the pitfalls that may be heading their way.  Bottom line is that being in a fit of panic or overly hurried, does not help anyone. It adds stress, tension, and a reduction in your well being. Therefore, slow down, see the world around you, and appreciate the little things.  Just breathe and live a healthy life. Have a tremendous weekend...Go BEARS! (cue Alabama - I'm in a Hurry (And Don't Know Why).

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Preparation

If you are anything like me, you love the Olympics. I watch all the events and find myself becoming an expert every four years in curling and the triple salchow (you know, it is all about the backward edge). Oftentimes while watching the competitions, I begin to think about the concept of preparation. The time and dedication it takes to compete at that level is amazing. The athletes live their lives measuring themselves as more than or less than. With more preparation, they have a better chance of success, with less, of course, the opposite is true. Though the Olympics only happen every four years, they all have interim competitions to measure their improvement.  Though the athletes want to be successful in the Olympics, they also want to win all the competitions leading up. That motivation and work ethic is what we need in education. The desire to do your best is intrinsic. We all know internal motivation is the best. We just have to help our students find it. No matter the motivation, the success is in the preparation. By meticulously preparing for success we can ensure a level of success for all our students. Have a tremendous weekend. (cue Howard Jones - Things Can Only Get Better).

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It's Okay to not be Okay

The other day I was meeting with some teachers and the subject of teacher ‘burnout’ came up.  No doubt, the pandemic has not been kind to teachers.  Educators work hard and are very unique in that we are always trying to find ways to improve.  Because of this, we often don’t leave time for rest and recovery.  We push through to the next break and then we rest. Many times, we fall to the ‘teacher sickness’ getting sick during vacation time (Just regular sickness like we had in the good ol’ days pre-COVID, because regular sickness still exists). Knowing this, it is important to remember that you are more than just your job.  Yes, being an educator is part of your identity, however, there are other parts also.  It is important to give attention and care to you.  When you are less than 100%, you can’t give 100%, and it is okay to not be okay. Our roles are demanding in that students need us. Let us not forget that they are successful because of what we do. So this weekend, take the time for yourself to enjoy what you love.  Take in the beautiful weather over this 3-day weekend. Enjoy the Super Bowl commercials and laugh. Laughter is the best medicine we have to battle the burnout. Have a restful weekend...Go BEARS! (cue Jackson Browne - Running on Empty).

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Positive Intentions

On the way to work today I began to think about the idea of positive intentions.  Many of us go about our day-to-day affairs with the goal of completing the task in front of us. Our intent is to not hurt anybody or to make anyone upset. I can acknowledge that I have blinders on at times.  For example, my intent was not to cut that person off on the road when I changed lanes. I was simply just trying to change lanes. If I could extend an apology for my actions, I would do so.  Knowing my flaws, I really do try to presume positive intentions of others. It is my hope that each of us can do the same in our daily lives. We need to give each other the benefit of the doubt from time to time.  Be more accepting and less rejecting. I am going to always err on the better side of humanity. I have a belief in the inherent goodness of people, including our students. The great majority of our students do not want to get into any trouble.  The first thought in their head is not, “How can I get into trouble at school today?”  Poor choices and poor influences are contributors however, we can overcome those influences.  The perseverance of meaningful interaction will turn the tide.  We just need to remain positive when it is most difficult to do so. 

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An Attentive Ear

The end of January is here and with it some really great weather. I always look forward to getting outside, as I absolutely love the warm afternoons.  The weather is perfect for planning outdoor excursions with my family. When on a trip or outing, I do what my parents did with me in the car. We often talk about what the soundtrack would be if we were in a movie. My love of music was born from the car trips I had with my family as a youngster.  Even though I was stuck in the middle of the backseat between my older brother and sister, I enjoyed those trips. Listening to the Casey Kasem Top 40 countdown gave me plenty of music to build a really great soundtrack.  That is why my weekly update usually has a ‘cue’ at the bottom.  It is the soundtrack for the piece.  Music can touch us all.  It transcends most all boundaries and can transport us immediately back to a memory.  Many times in our busy days, we hear the music but don’t really listen. Music is just as powerful as words and the impact can be just as large. Isn’t the difference just an attentive ear?  I’ll let you decide.  (cue Andra Day- Rise Up).

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Life Goals

Friday has arrived and another week of January is behind us. As we all continue to find ourselves in the middle of the pandemic, we must remember that this is a very difficult time for everyone. Coping can be difficult. For me, I try to focus on what I can control, which is my emotions and my actions.  That, of course, has not always been the case but I have tried to improve personally and professionally in that category.  Years ago, I committed to three goals in my life: To be the best father I can be; to be the best husband I can be; and to be the best human I can be.  Recently, I added to those daily goals after I recovered from a near death experience with COVID-19. I added, “Be Upright”. Though there are days that I fail miserably at all, my daily goals remain. With those failures, I have learned to pause, consider the impact of my actions, apologize when needed, reflect, and most of all make it right. This personal reflection I believe has made me a better educator. I wish you all a most excellent weekend…Go BEARS! (cue Josh Radin - Brand New Day).

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Looking on the Bright Side

We have made it to the end of another week and it is astounding how quickly it passed.  As the ‘new guy’ on campus, I have much to learn. Sometimes I feel like I am drinking through a fire hose. Though that is the case, I will always look on the bright side, at least I am hydrated. All kidding aside, the return from break is always a tough one but this one started even more difficult. The loss of one of our students will always be taken horribly.  Delivering condolences on behalf of the staff was my role and though I have done it before, it always stays with me. The words of the father will forever resonate in my head with the question “Did I do enough?” It is impossible to have a conversation like that and not be affected.  People matter. Connections matter. Differences among us all are reduced to trivial when tragedy strikes. Having said that, take a moment to reach out to a student or colleague today and say a kind word or two. You just never know the impact you may have. Have an outstanding Friday and an even better 3-day weekend. Go BEARS!(cue Cranberries, Linger)

Until next time...