At the end of my story-telling session I invited the room full of 6th graders to ask me questions; I was not prepared for what happened next. I was blown away with how perceptive they were to the finer details of my story, their questions were truly amazing. I answered each of their questions, the q&a portion lasted as long as the story-telling did, and I couldn't help but boast a smile that threatened to not leave my face for hours after. We finally came to an end and the students were dismissed to their tables for snack time. As I was about to leave the room a girl rushed up to me and shoved a notebook and pen in my face. Written on the sheet was one sentence- "People who inspire me:_____________________." She then asked me to sign on the line.
I have plenty of reasons to be thankful this holiday season. I must confess, I have been putting off writing this particular entry for quite some time now. It's not for the lack of inspiration, I just couldn't quite bring myself to write this. However, when this young girl asked me to sign that sheet of paper I knew that I had to celebrate it. No, I am not celebrating my awesome story-telling abilities, however awesome they may be, I am celebrating that some part of my story resonated with an 11 year old girl I had never met prior to that moment. I can't quite explain what feeling overtook me, because I'm still trying to understand it, but the gift of sharing has made a profound impact on me.
Three weeks ago today I learned that out of 47,000 applicants for Teach For America only 11% were accepted and my application made the cut. I was shocked. I had been audience for many an anecdote re-telling sad stories about candidates who, in my opinion, were more than qualified for a spot in this competitive program yet had not received admittance. I am blessed to have this chance to help what is considered the civil rights movement of our time- education reform. I will do my part and 'fight in the trenches' to try and make a difference. I am thankful for this. I'm sure it will be a humbling experience, to say the least, but it will also mark the introduction to a new chapter in my life. I don't know what that chapter holds but i'm excited.
While i'm on a roll, I would also like to express my love for my family and friends. That they continue to be in my life now and as I continue further is a true testament to love. I'm also thankful for the new friends in my life for what good is it to live if you can't laugh?
This entry is a lot longer than I wanted it to be, but what did I expect, I have been putting this off for a month now. This'll show me to never put off writing an entry again..then again I do have a track record of being a procrastinator. I have great friends, a supportive and loving family, a mission to work for, and have been granted the opportunity to be apart of something much larger than myself. I'm humbled and grateful this holiday season. I signed my name on the line for that student in hopes that she one day strives to become someone who inspires others.
Until next time,
RTIII