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...