After 43 years in my chosen profession, I remain excited, alive, and learning! From an active Twitter Account to blogging, from teaching Constitutional Law to Pre-AP English, from a national winner...
Today we celebrate a man of character, compassion and conviction. We as leaders, teachers, and thinkers know that the quality of these ideals should guide our decision-making into the future to build the capacity of our school communities.
These are his words and our challenges:
1. "We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope."
Change is hard and students, teachers, and parents need to know we do not expect perfection but we do expect performance!
2. "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."
We must model this in our daily speech and acts of kindness.
3. "Forgiveness is not an occasional act. It is a permanent attitude."
How can we expect perfection when we are failing ourselves as leaders; but, try every day, everyway to be better!
4. "I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear."
Good advice in every act of kindness in our schools.
5. "Life's most persistent and urgent question is, "What are you doing for others?"
If not me, then who; is not now, then when?
6. "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about the things that matter."
Even if your voice trembles, speak out against wrongs in your daily work!
7. "Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend."
Make no enemies in educating others! Strive to coach in love as everyone needs the best of you to succeed.