“Dignity doesn’t consist in possessing honors, but in deserving them.”
-Aristotle
How do the words above resonate with you?
Pause here for a moment and free yourself from distractions:
Take a deep breath in... exhale slowly... deep breath in... exhale slowly... deep breath in... exhale slowly... calm your mind and be present...
dignity | noun the state or quality of being worthy of honor or respect.
I woke up thinking about my very first mentor this morning. When I first started teaching I was fortunate enough to teach in my home town, in a neighborhood school. My mentor, Mrs. Curtis “Tillie” Stanford, was epitome of dignified. Tall woman, impeccably dressed, always professional, well respected by administration, staff, students and community members. Old school, she was there to teach and students were there to learn. At the same time, she made the environment in her tastefully decorated classroom fun, and a place where students wanted to be.
Mrs Stanford taught 3rd grade and my classroom was right next door where I taught 2nd grade. Now that I think about it... she probably wanted to make sure my students would be ready for her when they reached third grade...hhhummm....lol
Back then mentors received a stipend for their time that was deducted from the paycheck of their mentee. I remember, like it was yesterday, when I was asking for some advice about something, her saying to me; “Don’t let these teachers walk all over you, tell them off one good time and they’ll leave you alone.” She was right! LOL...
That summer I went with Mrs. Stanford on a boat ride that her church sponsored. She handed me a card with some beautiful hand written words and cash enclosed. She returned the money to me that was deducted from my check, stating that she didn’t deserve it, I did all the work. This still brings tears to my eyes when I think about it,,happy tears, I am grateful for Mrs. Stanford and we remain close after all these years. Mrs Stanford has always treated me like family.
What honors do you deserve?
...Think about it for a moment...
Wikipedia explains that “dignity” is the right of a person to be valued and respected for their own sake, and to be treated ethically. It is of significance in morality, ethics, law, and politics as an extension of the Enlightenment- era concepts of inherent, inalienable rights.
How do you want to be remembered?
...What do you hope people will say about you...?
How are you showing up... What value are you adding to the people you come in contact with?
...Spend some time with this one...
Today's Challenge: Reach out to a mentor!
Think about a mentor, teacher, or individual that made a lasting impact on you.
Connect with them, by phone or handwritten note.
Be specific and let them know what they mean to you.
Share what you are currently doing with them.
I am confident this small gesture will bring lasting smiles to someone. Don't miss your opportunity.
Be intentional, encourage others to do the same and watch what happens.
You got this!
Coach Tavia
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