Look back to see forward… Sometimes it is valuable to take a pause and look back at the journey we have traveled. It allows us the opportunity to see the results of seemly small things that ultimately made a larger impact. I have always utilized visuals to help me understand complicated concepts.
In June of 1986, I had just finished my 1st year as Assistant Principal at Fairfield HS. We had about 540 students and it was a new and often frustrating experience for an “old Ag. Teacher” from a small 1A school. I remember how barren and hot our outdoor commons area was, so during summer, I decided to plant a live oak sapling in the court yard. During the next couple of years, I watered and pruned the little tree and in 1988, I was appointed as principal at middle school across the road. Other people took up the task of caring for the tree. I have attached pictures of the courtyard taken in 1986 and 2012.
The tree is a symbol of what we do in the lives of students, colleagues and even our own family. We may only plant and others may nurture. In many cases, we become the conduit to continue growth that was initiated by others. It is helpful for us to look backward at times to understand the impact that we make TODAY may not be revealed in the short time-frame of days or weeks.
I was blessed to work in the same district as an administrator for more than 25 years. It is a joy to venture around town and see young people who were not always the best student, but who have become caring parents, loyal employees and contributing citizens. It is valuable to see today quality staff members who entered our profession as timid and fragile rookies.
Yes, there is a danger for individuals who always live in the past. However, there is opportunity for renewal when we “look back in order to see the future.”
Have a nice day and a grand weekend!
