A SUBTLE SHIFT
"I cannot wait for things to get back to normal," is a sentiment I have heard uttered many times over the past few months. In the midst of battle, it is only natural to long for days of ease. However, I believe it is a tragedy to get to the other side of an obstacle and in our haste to find balanced predictability we leave behind the valuable lessons learned in the midst of the struggle. The very foundation of our survival celebrations must be built upon our relenting courage and refusal to give up.
On May 23, 2021 I served as the commencement speaker for Saint Mary's School in Raleigh, NC. Established in 1842, the current Head of School, Brendan O'Shea, eloquently spoke of the historical hardships faced and conquered by former students. Suffering is unavoidable, but that day the collective strength I felt from the students, faculty, and families gathered was indomitable. This was my first in person speech in over a year, and I perceived a subtle shift. Fear and weariness was replaced with warmth and hope.
Take just a moment to acknowledge where you are today. Be grateful for your hard earned victories. Don't wish for things to return to how they were, but embrace the electric energy that is transforming us all into who we must become. The world needs you...come as you are...and use your talents and gifts to increase the subtle shift to a massive movement.
Photo: The esteemed faculty of St. Mary's School.
