We were discussing the pros and cons of starting over in a new high school and he stopped me mid-conversation.
Abruptly, he remarked. "Mom, what are you most afraid of?".
I told him that staying where he already knew everyone had its advantages. Many of them. Including the one about already knowing who the "bad guys" were or where the rough spots could be.
"But, I'm not afraid of mean kids, mom."
I quietly marveled at his ability to accept the change and not to be afraid. He told me about the extended opportunities this new place would bring for him and how he really needed to start thinking about his future.
Many hours later, I am still thinking about the resiliency within his words and the lessons I can learn from them for myself. Change can be hard and perhaps even more so for adults. Arriving to a new school as a student, teacher or as a leader requires a certain amount of courage. People may not understand your intentions at first. Some will want to assume the worst while others (hopefully more than most) will not. It can be a steep learning curve to figure out how all the people and pieces of a new place fit together.
In many ways, we have to trust that we, as students, teachers and leaders, will find our place among the groups and our own seats at the table. It will happen. It starts with that knowing and the determination to do our very best with every challenge before us.
Abruptly, he remarked. "Mom, what are you most afraid of?".
I told him that staying where he already knew everyone had its advantages. Many of them. Including the one about already knowing who the "bad guys" were or where the rough spots could be.
"But, I'm not afraid of mean kids, mom."
I quietly marveled at his ability to accept the change and not to be afraid. He told me about the extended opportunities this new place would bring for him and how he really needed to start thinking about his future.
Many hours later, I am still thinking about the resiliency within his words and the lessons I can learn from them for myself. Change can be hard and perhaps even more so for adults. Arriving to a new school as a student, teacher or as a leader requires a certain amount of courage. People may not understand your intentions at first. Some will want to assume the worst while others (hopefully more than most) will not. It can be a steep learning curve to figure out how all the people and pieces of a new place fit together.
In many ways, we have to trust that we, as students, teachers and leaders, will find our place among the groups and our own seats at the table. It will happen. It starts with that knowing and the determination to do our very best with every challenge before us.
"Live your life with arms wide open
Today is where your book begins
The rest is still unwritten..."
Did you move?, Bummer
ReplyDeletehey Rich! No we didn't move yet...not officially.
DeleteBeing the "new kid" is often a challenge, but if we're open to all possibilities and suspend judgement, then it will always bring welcome surprises. Good luck with the new challenges!
ReplyDeleteI appreciate your kind note here. I like what you've written about suspend judgment and being open to possibilities. It's sound advice!
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