What Students Don't Know...

Hello, all.

I am here to set the record straight once and for all. I am going to debunk a myth that too many people believe. You all must know the sacred truth that it is the students, NOT the teachers, who make the impact and have the biggest influence.

Say what? While I love the praise that teachers get for the difference they often make in students' lives, I in no way will ever impact students as much as they have impacted me. We teachers are the lucky ones. Sure we have some ever challenging students who make each day an adventure, but the good far FAR outweighs the bad. I am surrounded daily by young adults who amaze and inspire me with their creativity, intelligence, kindness, humor, determination, bravery, and maturity. I work with kids who when outside the school walls are faced with obstacles that I would never wish upon my worst enemy, yet those students come and give me their best each day. They work hard to ensure that their future will be different than their present. I have students who are exhausted due to working until 2 AM because they are helping their parents pay the bills. They have a determination that I dream of having.

I have students who I know will change the world. They see things in a different way. They have a love for others and a passion for making a difference that leaves me speechless.

Project turned in for Mrs. Rogers' class after reading Secret Life of Bees

We have students who turn in work like this: a painting entitled "Color Blind" about equality that is mindbogglingly powerful. There is the fist symbolizing equality for African Americans, and the top two hands is how one would say "equal" in sign language. Students do work like this, and teachers say that we make a difference? No way.

I have only taught for two years, hence Baby Teacher, but my life has been changed forever by all of my students. My students are my heroes. I am beyond blessed to work with such remarkable human beings. I refuse to wear the super hero cape. I give that back to all of the kids sitting in the desks in room J.12. Those are the real difference makers. I may not have the biggest bank account, but I know my heart is full of pride and admiration for all my students.

Go do good things,

BT

MY Bad

Well, hello! :)

I am not sure who taught me this invaluable life lesson, but I am sure am grateful for it now. I want to talk about apologies. There undoubtedly have been times where you had to give an apology or were owed an apology. It is a part of life. Today, I'd like to focus on the apologies that we must give and touch on their importance to be done correctly.

Here is the apology that makes me want to pluck each tendril from my head: "I am sorry for what I did, but YOU..." Time out. Freeze. Stop right there. At what point did the apology go from being about you to being about me? Why on earth are we incapable of giving an apology that just says what we did wrong? Yeah, I am sure the other person is at fault for something, but let them figure that out. When someone says the dreaded "but you," immediately our ears shut down and our anger rises due to the fact that we are receiving an empty apology. It's like holding out an engagement ring box only to find there is no ring inside. A fake apology does nothing but stir up more trouble. It you're truly upset at what you did or said, then just say that. Pointing the fingers while asking for forgiveness washes away any healing steps that were taken.

When we apologize, we often want immediate gratification--an apology back. We end up hurt if we are not kowtowed to in return. Life doesn't work that way. The best apology is a sincere one. No one wants an "I'm sorry" that holds no remorse for what was done or one that holds no promise. We have to be willing to atone for our mistakes, not for a reciprocation but for our own good. It is human nature to err, but it takes real character and humility to admit when we have wronged another. You also have to be willing to accept the possibility of the apology not fixing the situation. "I am sorry" bandages many issues, but sometimes it can't mend everything. Give the apology and take the response maturely.

There you have it. Repent but repent with sincerity and without expectations of anything in return. Focus on your errors, and never ever throw in the "but you." You're the only one in control of you. It doesn't matter what the other person did. They have to apologize on their own terms. You can't force it. Take ownership of your own actions and fix what you did. :)

Go do good things,

BT

Powerful Beyond Measure

Hi, folks.

I am easily motivated. I watch something where someone rises to a challenge, and I immediately am ready to jump off the couch and change the world.

I am going to attach a video that I'd like you to watch first. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OSYtQy9EqTA

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others." -Marianne Williamson


Don't be afraid of your own light. If you are capable of greatness, you should achieve it. Each of us has greatness in us. It is our job to tap into that potential and do amazing things with it.  Greatness is different for each of us; we each have our own path. Do not let anything or anyone stop you in your tracks. Like the video said, many people give up on their dreams or goals either because people are trying to bring them down or life gets too hard. Here is what I have learned in my "long" 25 years of life: There will ALWAYS be people who try to stop you, and life is never going to be easy. 


It is a human flaw to criticize others in order to make yourself feel more adequate. It is a terrible thing that too many people fall in to. I can't say that I know too many people who enjoy being ripped apart by others, but like I said in "Brush It Off," what they say doesn't matter. It's what you tell yourself that matters. Don't give people against you any power over who you are or what you want to become. If you give them the power, I can guarantee what the end result will be. Don't blame others for not getting where you want to be and say they were mean or held you down. The only person that can hold you down is yourself. YOU are powerful beyond measure and can do anything you want. People cannot stop you if you do not let them.


It is also a human flaw to stop when life gets too hard. Guess what? Life will never be easy. Life will knock you down and kick you while you on the ground; however, I think it is only for our benefit. There is so much more to learn when you're on the ground then when you're sailing high. When you get knocked down, you learn how strong you really are. You learn what you can take. You learn that you have the strength to get back up no matter what has been thrown your way. Life being hard isn't meant to be a road block. Life being hard is meant to show you what you're capable of overcoming. Life being hard makes the success that much sweeter because you know what you had to get through to be where you are. Life will never roll over and die, and neither should you. The world needs fighters--people willing to give their all to reach their dreams.

I hope this resonates with some of you. Don't let yourself or anyone else hold you back. Don't be afraid of being great.  You will meet some along your journey that will try to stop you; don't let them. Life will be there to knock you down; get right back up. Why? Because you are powerful beyond measure.

Go do good things,

BT

Don't Cut Corners

Hello!

Happy Monday! I once saw a poster that read, "Character is who you are when no one is watching." Ah ha! Incredible thought that I felt was crucial in life; thus, I'd like to discuss my thoughts on this topic.

A major flaw that many people have is only giving their best when eyes are on them. People often want a pat on the back or recognition for anything and everything they do. The only problem is when eyes avert off of us. Many will cut corners or give much less than their best. Without the opportunity for praise, so many of us just don't want to push ourselves and give all that we are capable of.

My opinion? Be the best you can be all times. We have to learn that our own personal pride is worth just as much as applause from others. You know the truth. You know when you've cut corners. You know when you've given less than 100% percent. You also know when you are putting on a show just because people are watching. We are only hurting ourselves when we do this. We become okay with giving less than our best. This becomes a trend in many facets of our lives, but when we constantly demand the best of ourselves, we often find that each of us is capable of so much more than we thought.

Be the same "you" when people aren't watching as when they are. Without character, we do not have much. We can't rely on others to give us this. We have to do the right thing simply because it is the right thing to do. We really should not be given a ticker tape parade because we have done what we were supposed to do. It isn't a contest. It isn't about being better than the next person. It is about being the best that you can be because giving the best you have at all time makes you a better, happier person.

Don't work hard just for a pat on the back. Don't work hard just when people are watching. Always push yourself to do your best. You can't buy character. You have to work for it. When you have it though, people notice. :)

Go do good things,

BT

Brush It Off

Hello. I don't know if I could describe a more perfect summer day if I tried. What a beautiful day. Two blogs in one day! I am overachieving today because I doubt I will get another one in this weekend.

Well, today's post was pretty easy for me to pick. I wanted to discuss the importance of knowing who you are and not letting anyone tear you down. It is human nature to care, even if in the slightest, about what others think or say about us, but we cannot let it consume our lives. There are people who spew venom without truly knowing anything, and we have to learn to let that roll off our backs.

You are the only one who truly knows you. You know what you feel, what you did, and what you're going to do. That is important because there will be others who claim to know all there is to know in each of those categories. Be confident enough in who you are to be able to push aside what you know is not true. If you know you're doing the right thing or that your heart is in the right place, keep your head up and shoulders back. Keep moving forward.

Jealously and hate are two evil things. It's sad when you see it first hand. Please don't let it stop you. Please don't let it shake your convictions or belief in who you are. You are capable of doing everything you put your mind to. Don't let someone put a period where there should be a comma. Don't let anyone's words or actions stop you or make you question yourself. That would only give the people against you pleasure.

Here is what I have found to be true--the people who love you and support you will always be honest with you. If you find yourself unsure, ask them. Ultimately though, you have to listen to your gut. If you can go to bed knowing you did your very best or made the best decision that you could, don't beat yourself up. You are the only one who truly knows you. As Dr. Seuss once said, "Be who you are and said what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." :) Have a great day!

Go do good things,

BT

Real Life Heroes

Good morning, everyone. I hope your day is wonderful.  :)

I wanted to talk about and pay respect to my heroes. I have been lucky enough to meet people who have completely changed me for the better. These ladies are once in a lifetime sort of people. I don't think I could find others like them. This takes nothing away from my other friends; these ladies just play multiple roles. I'd like to talk to you today about three people: Ernie Pyle, Mrs. Rogers, and Super Woman. (Nicknames are difficult to come up with, so don't laugh at me too much.)

Ernie Pyle: I pray that everyone has someone like this in her life. I met her when I was 16, and she is the biggest reason that I am doing what I am today. She has inspired me since day one. She is kind, giving, friendly, loyal, funny, smart, strong, and is always there when I need her. It's hard to come up with words to say about her because I can't think of anything that would truly do her justice. I will never be able to repay her for all she has done for me. She is equal to none in my eyes. I have said it before, but I would love to be even half the person she is. Thanks, Ernie. :) You (and all of the "Pyles") are truly irreplaceable.

Mrs. Rogers: Oh, my. Where do I even begin? Hilarious. She is easily the funniest person that I know. I never worry about much when I am around her because I am having too much fun. That's what I love most about her. I can forget about anything that is bothering me. We just laugh, do stupid things (always legal, of course), and have a blast. I love being around her because I feel like I am a much happier person. Even with all of this, I still can tell her anything. She is always there to help when my "25-year-old life ending" problems arise. She is absolutely incredible. She has taught me to not worry so much, soak up every minute, and just be happy. Mrs. Rogers, you rock. So glad I met you and your wonderful family.

Super Woman: I don't know that I have ever met anyone like this lady. Most people would crumble dealing with half of the things she has had to go through in her life, but she still stands tall and moves forward. I want to soak up every second I have with her because I know that I am by someone who is incredibly special. No matter what is going on in her life, she always wants to know what is happening with me. She is a constant support and a wealth of knowledge. I have the utmost respect for all she is and does. I have shared some of the most special times in my life with her. We've had side splitting laughter and gut wrenching tears. Through it all, I know we'll always share a special bond. I hope she knows how much I love and admire her. :)

My life is full of extraordinary people, but I must put a spotlight on these three. I wouldn't be who I am without them. I owe them the world. I don't know what I have done to deserve them in my life, but I won't question it. I will simply enjoy every chance I get to be around these incredible ladies.

Go do good things,

BT

The Quirkier the Better

Hi, friends.

I am here today to tell you this one thing: sing in the car. You may be saying, "What, BT? Where is this coming from? You've been all serious and inspirational. Now, you're telling me to sing in my car?" I sure am.

This blog transpired today from my own personal rendition of Beyonce's "Irreplaceable." I have a full out chair dance to this song. I am able to do it with one hand on the wheel or with my knee on the steering wheel. (Side note: I only drive with me knee on straight roads. I promise not to do that around curves.) Anyway, I was cruising around in my Aveo, radio up, and making sure that I let everyone in LP know that the boy should never feel he is irreplaceable.

The point? I had a blast. I was silly, but I didn't care. I am sure every person watching me doing my award winning choreography thought I had lost it, but happiness was oozing out of me. I want every single person to be insanely happy. We are the only ones who control how we feel. We may not believe this, but it is true. Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you deal with it. Let your hair down and have some fun. I know we have to be adults, take care of many other people, pay bills, and all of the other fun adult activities we are bound to, but never let that child in you die.

If singing and dancing in the car is out of the question, do anything you're comfortable with. Try skipping. I skip almost daily at school with my friend Mrs. Rogers. (See if you all can figure out who Mrs. Rogers is.) I promise that it is impossible to skip and frown. I just want you all to smile, laugh, and be as happy as you all deserve. Life is so much better when you choose to make it fun. My high school students taught me YOLO this year, and as cheesy and cliche as it is, it is true. You only live once. Don't look back and wish you would have loosened up and had more fun. Start now. If you need to hang out with Baby Teacher and Mrs. Rogers to see how it is done, we will welcome you with open arms.

Life is all what you make of it. Soak up every minute. Have fun. Choose to be happy. I promise if you put on a little Beyonce and crank up the radio that you'll be well on your way. Just watch out for the silver Aveo. I'll be doing my best to show you up!

Go do good things,

BT

Let It Go

Hi, everyone! Happy hot and humid Wednesday!

I thought I would touch on something that completely pushed me out of a negative time in my life. It is something that we all have dealt with at some point in our lives--forgiveness.

It is an unfortunate given in our lives: We will at some point be hurt, misled, lied to, etc. by someone. Unless we seclude ourselves on our own private island, we will face a compromising situation. These issues are never pleasant to deal with, but what often hurts people more than the actual situation itself is that they never let it go. People hold on to the hurt and anger for years. We must forgive.

Forgiveness is giving up the hope that the past could be any different. There is no possible way that any one of us can rewind back to the moment we were hurt and change what happened. Believe me, if that were possible, I would have done it. If we don't forgive, we are stuck in the past. We don't allow ourselves to continue on and be happy. Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself. You give yourself back the power over you. When we hold on to grudges or the hurt of something that occurred, we surrender the power over to the one(s) who hurt us. Take the power back. Forgive and begin taking steps forward in your life. 

Forgiveness doesn't mean that you are ok with what happened; it doesn't make it right. You don't have to run into the arms of the person who hurt you, but you can allow yourself to see them in a more positive light. Just let it go. Throw away the weight off your back. You can't change what happened. The only you can control is how you handle it. Do not hold onto something that will bring continual sadness into your life. Get out of the dark spot. Forgiveness allows you to take that first step back into the light. 

Does Your Face Light Up?

Good evening, all!

I was so excited when I remembered this clip I once saw on Oprah because I knew that it would be absolutely perfect.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Jw0Fu8nhOc - Clip if you are interested!

Oprah always refers to the "Aha Moment." It is the moment when you come to a realization that can change who you are. Author Toni Morrison was on the show discussing a book, but she said something that gave me my "Aha Moment." Morrison asked, "When a child walks into a room, does your face light up?" I thought about this a great deal that day. It doesn't have to just be a child; it can be anyone. It goes back to the fact that everyone wants to feel appreciated and validated.


"Does your face light up?" What emotion are you giving off when you first see a friend, family member, co-worker, spouse, student? People can sense how you feel about them. Make them feel what you feel. I say this because we all know what it is like to be on the other side. We know how it is to be acknowledged with excitement and joy, and we know what it is like to meet the critical eyes of someone that we care about. No one likes to be picked apart as soon as they enter the room. It is always nice to feel that you are wanted. I think this advice can do wonders for so many. I don't advise jumping up and down or lighting off fireworks each time you see someone you love; however, I promise that if you make a sincere attempt to "light up" you will see a difference.


I have a friend whom I work with whom people are drawn to because of this very reason; she makes it seem as though she is truly happy to see you. Sometimes it's with an enthusiastic hello or a big smile, but she makes it known that she is glad I am there. It is the same with the kids. She is adored by 99.99% of the school population. (I have to leave the .01% of people who can't get along with anyone.) She validates everyone. She probably has no idea what she is doing, but it makes all the difference in the world. She lights up.


That is my advice. Become conscious of the vibe you give off. Show genuine happiness when a loved one enters a room. We have plenty of time to be critical and dole out advice later. First, let them know they are loved with a smile, cheerful hello, or even an acknowledgement. A little bit of caring can go a long way.


Go do good things,


BT 

Say What?

Hi, everyone! I know it has been a while since my last post, but I have been quite busy. I hope this post finds you all doing well and having enjoyed Father's Day.

Thought for today? The importance of listening.

I once was told that the most important part of communicating is listening. This stuck with me as one truth that I needed to remember. How many times have you felt that your friend, spouse, co-worker, or family member heard you but did not listen to you?

I implore you to listen; listen to what the person you are speaking with is saying. Look at them, keep your lips sealed, and really listen. We are so quick to chime in with our own stories that fit the situation or quick comments we want to share, but what often is compromised is the internalization of what was said. When we are busy thinking of what we want to respond with, we are closing our minds to what the other person wants us to understand. We hear, but we do not listen.

When we listen, we validate the other person. We tell them, "Yes, I understand what you are saying, and it is important to me." Isn't that what we want? We want others to understand what we feel. This can't be accomplished without listening. It takes a dose of selflessness. It takes one person focusing on another person and, for a moment, completely forgetting about him/herself and directing all attention to the friend or family member. I know it may seem like you are not doing a whole lot to alleviate the problem, but allowing a  person to share their feelings and having those feelings validated is incredibly beneficial and freeing.

Everyone loves a listener. This is a fact. Find people in your life that will genuinely listen to what you have to say; however, it is a two way street. You should always repay the favor. Zip the lip, and open your ears!

Get Better Not Bitter

Hi,

I'm back! This blog has reignited a passion for writing that I forgot I had. I had always been told what to write in school, so this is making me quite happy. I get to choose what I write now! All the support is much appreciated.

Thought of the day? Don't feel sorry for yourself...for too long. :)

Each day that I wake up, I walk upstairs to find one of the most beautiful women that I know. She is a measly 105 lbs and wears a hat to cover a head that was made baby smooth by cancer. She has tubes hanging off from her chest and stomach and has turned our home into a makeshift pharmacy, but I find her to be breathtakingly gorgeous.

My step-mother was diagnosed with leukemia late last year, and it spread through her quickly. What we once thought was a manageable disease became a frightening beast that took over her body. She has been down a long road, but she is at home trying to recover after a bone marrow transplant. My step-mother has every single reason in the world to feel sorry for herself. She could easily lie on the couch each day and complain about the fight she faces--the fight for her life. What do I get when I walk upstairs? I get a smile. I get laughter. I get this tiny lady trying to do dance moves with me in the kitchen. I get a lady who is pumped to watch Dance Moms with me after taking another painful injection. I get a lady who asks me how my day was and what I did. I get corny jokes. I get happiness. I take away inspiration and an appreciation for everything and everyone that I love.

Don't feel sorry for yourself. Stand up, put your shoulders back, and move forward. Life will not always hand you what you want, but you can make it into what you need. Don't worry about things or people who don't deserve it. Don't stress about things you can't control. If you mess up, let it be. You can't change the past. You can control how you deal with it. Appreciate. Appreciate. Appreciate. Value the little things. Just enjoy what you've been given. If my step-mom, a person who had her life flipped upside down and almost ripped away from her, can do it, I know you can, too. Life is all what you make it. I see that now.

Just be happy.

Go do good things,

BT

You've Got a Friend in Me

Hi,

I am hoping that you all are having a great week. I have had a perfect few days, and I am wishing that the whole summer pans out like this. I am just happy.

I met with two old friends today, and it was refreshing. It was nice to see people whom I haven't seen in years. While driving home and wondering what I would write about, I was reminded of a poem that I read once about friendships. (I have pasted the poem to the bottom of the blog if you're inclined to read.) I felt compelled to make this the topic of my blog. The idea of the poem was that each friend in our life serves a purpose; they are for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. Think about it. It fits. I have had my fair share of friendship ups and downs; yet, as I have grown up, I now have the sense to look back and understand why some people came and went and why some are still here.

Reason: I think this is the hardest one to figure out. These are the friends that came in like a lamb but out like a lion. There is generally hurt attached with this person, but if you can wipe away all of the pain and frustration, you are left with a lesson. The important thing is to figure out the reason that particular person came into your life. Did she teach you to let loose? Was she there to help you through a time of difficulty? Because of her, did you learn the importance of standing up for yourself? Whatever the reason, this type of friend is important.

Season: I consider this type of friend to be the ones you meet in college and lose touch with or friends you may meet in different jobs. Whatever the case, they are there for a season. These friendships fade after time, but they are meaningful. I loved my college friends. I rarely if ever speak to them because of the hustle and bustle of life, but the memories made with them are ones that I won't forget. They pulled me through college. When I was stressed or just exhausted, they were there ready to cheer me up. 

Lifetime: Oh, the trusty lifetime friends. Truth be told, I just found my lifetime friends not all that long ago, but if there is one thing I am sure about, it is them. We all have those friends. Life would not be nearly as wonderful without our lifetime friends. It took me 25 years, but I now have a core group surrounding me whom I trust completely. They support me. They laugh with me. They cheer for me. They stick up for me. They are a true friend in every sense of the word. Hold on to these types of friends. Never take them for granted. Make sure you are giving as much as you are receiving because these people are irreplaceable. Thank you to my lifetime friends. You each know who you are. :)

There you have it. Look at the people in your life. Are they for a reason, season, or a lifetime? Be sure to figure out what lessons you were supposed to learn if you had some reasons. If the Big Guy is trying to teaching you something, it is probably important. 

Go do good things,

BT

A Reason A Season A Lifetime

Reason Season Lifetime

People always come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime.
When you figure out which it is, you know exactly what to do.

When someone is in your life for a REASON,
It is usually to meet a need you have expressed outwardly or inwardly.
They have come to assist you through a difficulty,
Or to provide you with guidance and support,
To aid you physically, emotionally, or even spiritually.

They may seem like a godsend to you, and they are.
They are there for the reason you need them to be.
Then, without any wrong doing on your part or at an inconvenient time,
This person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end.

Sometimes they die. Sometimes they just walk away.
Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand.
What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled; their work is done.
The prayer you sent up has been answered and it is now time to move on.

When people come into your life for a SEASON,
It is because your turn has come to share, grow, or learn.
They may bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh.
They may teach you something you have never done.

They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy.
Believe it! It is real! But, only for a season.
And like Spring turns to Summer and Summer to Fall,
The season eventually ends.

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons;
Those things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation.
Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person anyway;
And put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas in your life.

It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.
Thank you for being part of my life,
Whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime.

Thank you. Merci. Gracias.

Hi,

Happy Monday! Normally Mondays are a source of irritation for me, but now that summer is here, I love Mondays! I woke up at 9 today. Hello, Heaven.

Going along with my "scatter joy" theme, I thought I would introduce all of you to something fun and gratifying that you could EASILY do to scatter a little joy around the world. Oprah introduced a little project called the "Thank You Game." What happens is that she gives you a topic for the day, and you are to thank someone, anyone, who fits the description. Her goal is to get one billion thank yous around the world. They post new challenges daily, so you will never run out of ideas. It feels great to thank someone, but the best is the reaction you get from the person who is genuinely appreciative of you acknowledging what they did. It's a win/win situation.

https://www.facebook.com/ownTV/app_219838831450129

Go to the link, and check it out!

You don't have to send out a ticker tape parade to the person's door step. Send a text, card, email, or make a phone call. Saying "thank you" is one of the greatest things any of us can say. Imagine how much nicer our community, country, even world would be if we all took the time to realize how much other people do for us on a daily basis. If I accomplish anything with this blog, I want other people to realize how important it is to care for and be kind to others. Sure, we all could make it on our own, but what fun would that be?

Be someone who adds to the world, not takes away from it. Add a little joy not only to your life but to others. It's really quite fun. :)

Go do go things!

BT

"At the end of the day people won’t remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel." - Maya Angelou

Pay the Price

Hi,

Hope everyone's weekend has been great! I have been racking my brain for a topic for today. It just came to me, so I quickly fired up my computer and am going to try to adequately convey my feelings on the idea of to get what you want, you have to pay the price.

For many, life would be wonderful if everything we wanted was placed before us as soon as we wanted it; however, I think there is something to be said for the journey that we take to achieve what we want most. We learn so much about ourselves during the time we spend pushing ourselves and finding out what our limits are. Often times, what we are capable of is much more than we had originally thought.

I will have to use my sports analogies for this blog, as it makes it much easier for me to explain, but this can translate to any facet of life. Every team in Indiana says on the first day of the season, or at least they should, "We want to go to the state championship." There is nothing wrong with wanting the ultimate prize in high school sports. Many want it; only two get it. What's the difference? Two teams paid the price. I once heard a quote that said, "To get to a place you've never been, you have to do things you have never done." We must work hard in order to achieve success. There is no substitute for hard work.

If I were a player and wanted to get to the state championship, I have to realize that when I am on the court playing or practicing, I cannot let up. I have to push myself every second. I have to give even when I think I have nothing left to give. People often find ways to cut corners in life, never knowing their full potential. However, when people push themselves as hard as they can be it in sports, work, school, etc, the bar they can reach is much higher than originally perceived.

So many of us do not reach our "state championship" because we pause to feel sorry for ourselves or to complain about how hard we are working. The moment we stop to complain or take a break, someone has passed us.  There are people out there who want something so badly that they are willing to pay the price, and if you aren't willing to pay the same price, you have to expect to be passed. You must go and seize what you want, even if it is difficult to obtain. Sure times are going to be hard, and you'll be exhausted, but always keep in mind the incredible feeling you will have when what you have dreamed of is finally in your grasp.

My advice is to pay the price. Go out and do things you never have done to get what you've never had. Life is so short and filled with too many "what ifs" or "I should haves." When you're saying that, it is too late. Push yourself; believe in yourself. One of my goals is to coach in a state championship game. I don't care how long it takes me, I will pay the price to reach that goal.

Go do good things,

BT

Choose Wisely!

Hi,

I find this blog quite cathartic, so I want to tell you select few who read this that I appreciate all of your kind words about what I have to say. There is nothing better than a pat on the back for something that I worked hard on. Thanks!

I feel slightly strange giving all this advice on things that I feel are important. People probably scoff at the 25-year-old telling others about life; however, I feel confident in saying that I am a 75-year-old trapped in a 25-year-old's body. I am sure of it. Therefore, my thoughts have some validity.

What's my advice? Choose wisely. I don't necessarily mean paper or plastic, scrambled or over easy, or the blue top or pink top. I think one of the most important decisions people can make is whom they choose to be in their life. Duh, right? Well, it is much easier said than done. It's far too easy to let people stay in our lives who drain us of happiness, trust, and faith.

I had a friendship like this for far too long, and I was miserable. I was giving constantly, which was fine for the first nine years, but by the tenth, I had nothing left to give. Once I got my teaching job, I became very close with a group of ladies who treated me like I deserved. It was hard for me to take instead of continually give; I didn't think I deserved it because I was not used to it. I finally had people who appreciated me not for what I could do for them but just for being me. They supported me and helped piece me back together. My smile is back, and I have my pep back. These friends made me realize the importance of choosing wisely.

There in lies my advice. You can't choose family, but you can choose your friends. Find people who appreciate you for who you are, faults and all. Find people who make you laugh and who you can be yourself around. Find people who will drop whatever is going on when you're in desperate need of them. Find someone who is willing to give just as much as you are. Find people who celebrate your successes and are not jealous of them. With this, have the courage to let go of those people who drain you. Life is too short to waste time waiting for people to change. Maya Angelou once said, "The first time people show you who you are, believe them." Trust me, it is so true. You are special and deserve only the best people in your life.

I am who I am because of those who are around me. Thank you for being a part of that.

Go do good things,

BT

I think I can; I think I can

Hi,

I have to give credit for this particular blog to two people. #1- My buddy G. Coop gets the first recognition because he bought me a book by John Wooden that has made me feel like I could climb Mount Everest and motivate a country to follow me. #2- I have to give credit to John Wooden. I knew he was an incredible coach and person, but holy cow. This man is second to none. I read a passage in the book, which is now highlighted, that says, "A favorite observation of my dad's was the following: 'Never believe you're better than anybody else, but remember that you're just as good as everybody else.' That's important: No better, but just as good!"

Confidence in myself has always been a weakness of mine. I mainly chalk it up to my insane perfectionism, but it definitely is something that I need to work on. Every time I do something, I incessantly cut myself down for it or psych myself out prior to even starting by telling myself that I am not good enough to do it. I have so many wonderful people in my corner who send me praise, but I never believe it. Then, I read Mr. Wooden's words. "No better, but just as good." Apparently, when he says it, it sticks more. I was riding the stationary bike when I read this. I turned into Lance Armstrong for a moment and threw my hands in the air like I had just won my 8th Tour de France. I can do it. I do deserve it. I am just as good as anyone else. That's what I told myself.

I see this so much in my classroom. It is most evident in the young girls whom I work with each day. I am not sure who is telling them they can't, but my goal is to break that chain. I will now have a poster up in my room with the important words I just read. People don't have to walk around thinking they are better than others, but no one should walk around with her head hanging low because she doesn't believe she can do whatever it is that she is being asked to do or wants to do. Girls need to believe in themselves. I need to take a little of my own medicine.

I have been given a special job, one that I could easily sit and tell myself that I can't do or don't deserve because I am not as good as other people. In fact, I had been doing that very thing for quite some time. However, if I stop being negative and realize that I do deserve what I have been given, I feel excited about what lies ahead. From now on, my shoulders are back, and my head is held high. I may be no better, but I am just as good. So are all of you. :)

Go do good things,

BT

YouTube Lover

Hi,

I was told to make a summer bucket list for my next blog. I find these extremely difficult to make. I tried in vain, but I found my list to be boring, and boring is something I strive to never be. After I hit my final backspace, I knew what I was going to write about: YouTube.

To say that I love YouTube would be the understatement of the century. While some activities that I partake in drag on endlessly, I sometimes can spend hours watching videos. For example, last night (don't judge me, please) I spent an hour and a half watching videos of soldiers returning home and surprising their children at school. I can sense some judgement going on here, but that's alright. I sat in my bed sobbing. No joke. It was the ugly cry. You know, the one where mascara is running down your face, snot is building up, and you do that wheezing thing that sounds like you're gasping for air. Some videos were so touching that I had little whines escape. After I finished watching these incredible men sneak to schools and see the children catapult into their father's arms, I felt happy. I was reminded that people are good.

I am incredibly thankful for YouTube. Where else can I find a boy who is "happy of myself" for learning to ride a bike (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eaIvk1cSyG8 --this is a must watch), a man get all of his closest family and friends to make a special proposal (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yNdpaSBTzo), two little girls from England who brighten my whole day (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUWpd91UBrA&feature=fvst), see an Olympian tear a hamstring and finish the race with the help of his dad (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFKpZnok10s), a student of mine persuading peers to have self confidence (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppT3n4DuwUo&feature=g-user-u), or a little boy see his father who has been overseas (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ygt9Wizh9mo&feature=related)? I am sucker for sentimental stories. I love seeing people triumph, laugh, or do amazing things. To me the glass is always half full, and YouTube proves that time and time again. Yes, I know there is a lot of trash on there, but for every stupid video, there are countless ones that never fail to make me smile. Yay for optimism!

I love to be happy. I love to smile. Thank you, YouTube, for always being a great source of this. And, thank you, all of you, for reading this.

Go do great things,

BT

Ps- I highly recommend watching all of the videos listed. :) 

Blog Inauguration

I love words. I find more joy in the written word than the spoken; I feel it sheds a light and peels away layers that people may not see.  I never do things for me, so this is my sorry attempt to treat myself. I will start a blog with no specific rhyme or reason behind it. Some posts may be inspirational, some may be thought provoking, some may be silly, and some may be the most random grouping of words any of you have read. Whatever the aim may be for that particular blog, this will be for me. That is a big step, as many of you know.

That leaves the burning question of what shall my very first blog be about. Well, let me tell you...

I will tell you why I think the title of my blog should be the mantra everyone lives by.  I spent hours (if you do not count the many visits downstairs to my most favorite person) up in my classroom today trying to organize, clean, and work on finishing up the yearbook for this school year. As I was getting ready to call it a day, I picked up a letter from a student that was given to me on the last day of school. It was such a sweet, touching letter. It was so nice to hear that I was appreciated. I proceeded to head over to the place I put all of my little notes or cards from students. I decided it was a great time to pull all of them out and read each one again. While this reaffirmed my love of teaching, the letters, drawings, cards, and various other trinkets reminded me of the importance of "spreading joy."

In a world that is increasingly becoming more and more self absorbed, a kind word or gesture to another person is cherished. My family has teased me since my first day of kindergarten that I am a suck up. This label has stuck with me throughout my life, but what I find frustrating is that people think saying a kind word to another person is sucking up. Why can't I tell a person they look nice if they do? Why can't I send a card to thank someone for doing something nice for me or just being a great person? Somewhere along the line people have become too jaded and selfish. We need to step outside ourselves and be kind. Instead of only telling people what you don't like about them, why not say something that you do? That's what I challenge everyone to do for one week. Each day, say something nice to someone. It could be a thank you, a simple compliment, or a written expression. Just scatter some joy. I plan to. :)

Shew. Blog #1 is done. I'll start thinking what to write about next.