A leader's lesson in humility

I will wholeheartedly admit that when I received the list of students whom I would be interviewing for Confirmation today I was slightly disappointed. These were 8th graders who I did not really know, ones who were kind of on the quiet side, ones who I considered out of all of them didn't care as much about their faith.

One girl in particular I was worried about. And, as we got ready for her group's turn, she informed me she had not brought her service journal for our religious ed director/Confirmation coordinator. I told her I would write her name down so he knew to follow up with her tomorrow, and I thought rather sarcastically to myself, This is going to be fun.

The first question I asked to break the ice, as it seemed rather low stakes to me, was about who they had each picked as their Confirmation Saint and why. Responses were similar, as names, on a whole, were chosen to honor a relative or because the Saint had stuck with them from a younger age. When everyone else in this particular group had shared, the girl (whom I had my doubts about) spoke up. She said, "This may seem like a silly reason (at which point my head jumped to, Oh boy, she chose the name because it sounded cool - I've had that happen before)... but I took the name Novena because it represents how the Apostles waited nine days for the Holy Spirit and I need to learn how to wait in my life for the Holy Spirit because I need it, especially as I go to high school."

I think my jaw dropped.

(And, if I could have kicked or slapped myself, I would have.)

As my conversation with the students continued, she shared about the influence of her grandma's faith on her own life and for her desire to be more involved in the parish. She was so genuine, and her thoughts were so deep.

How had I been so judgmental? (And why, in the past, have I prided myself on not judging people?) Here I was thinking because she got in trouble in school and didn't always get the best grades academically that she didn't have much of a faith life; yet, I would wager her faith is stronger than mine.

I was both deeply saddened and humbled by our conversation. I had underestimated one of our students, and she showed me through her thoughtful reflection and honesty how much of her heart and mind that I had not yet seen this year. And I know today was still only scratching at the surface.

I knew that I failed as a school leader today, even if it was on the inside where no one else could see but me. But I also knew I learned a valuable lesson - never underestimate or throw out anyone, especially a student. Everyone has something to say, and people are often not who they first appear to be without taking the time to get to know them.

And everyone needs someone to believe in them, ask the right questions, step back, and watch them shine.

Recognizing Gifts

At this time last year, I was lucky if I was able to run 2 or 3 miles - I was in process of getting back into running at an excruciatingly slow pace after discovering that I had plantar fasciitis. I had gone to physical therapy, got a shot of cortisone in my foot (which I will not forget the pain of any time soon), and resigned myself to mostly just using the bike at the gym.

Yet, with perseverance and, yes, a dose of stupidity, I was able to run 20 miles with my sister this past Saturday as part of my training for an upcoming spring marathon. (Surprisingly, I'm not too sore today - woo hoo!) If that's not a miracle, I don't know what is! I am so grateful to friends who have suggested shoes, inserts, and other ideas for mitigating the pain along the way - I wouldn't still be running today if it wasn't for them.

Sometimes, we get knocked on our butts, and it is only then we realize that we often take our abilities for granted. It is only then that we realize we can't rely on our own strength - we need God, and we need others.

For me, it wasn't until I had to learn to deal with the reality of plantar fasciitis that I realized what a gift being able to run (however fast or slow on a given day) truly is. And I pray that I don't need something quite so drastic any time soon to remember that no ability (or person, for that matter) should ever be taken for granted.

Teamwork makes the dream work

I was reminded of this oft-used sentiment this week multiple times. And in the process, I was reminded also just how blessed I am to be surrounded by incredible co-workers, friends, and family who are always willing to step up and lend a hand.

This week I have been knocked on my butt. Literally. Whatever sinus infection or cold that is in my head right now is relentless. I went to bed at 6pm on Monday night in the hopes of kicking this thing, but, much to my chagrin, I woke up at 4am on Tuesday morning and realized I would not be making it into school. I texted my team and they (as it got closer to 6/7am) readily volunteered to cover classes. The two women I coach with handled our game that night on their own. My boyfriend was working a half day on Tuesday before covering evening games nearby, so he brought me lunch. My sister and parents texted to check up on me. Even though I felt horrible, I couldn't have felt better (from a support perspective).

When I got back to school on Wednesday - still not 100% - my coworkers checked in on me, stopping by before school started. Many students wanted to make sure I was doing better too. People offered medicine, uplifting comments, and well wishes.

I hope to be back to my normal self soon - let's face it: being sick sucks. But, again, I am so very grateful for everyone in my life who helps bring a smile to my face and warmth to my heart. Cheers to them!