“Looking back, I realize that it wasn’t about the events themselves that we were planning and putting on, but about the experiences and processes we went through.”
We all have those moments during the year when we wonder if what we are saying to our students is being picked up. We each question if all the paperwork and politics is worth the stress. We wonder if all our heart, that we put into our work and our students, is being felt.
I am no exception from that. And for me, my work, heart and efforts were validated last week during the UAB End-of-Year Banquet.
As with every banquet there was food, music, and speeches. Thanks were spoken and acknowledgements given. But it was during one of the director’s speech that gave me the reminder that my efforts have not been in vain and that though it may not seem as if the students may be catching everything we throw at them but they truly do understand.
The above quote was spoken by one of the directors I advise, and it completely validated a long year of hard heartfelt work. I mean, the feels I got drew a tear!
But its simple quick moments like that which truly validate our work. Regardless of the campus politics, mistakes made, struggles in the field, etc. we can be confident that we are doing good work!
So, I hope that this serves as a reminder that even though students and colleagues may not often acknowledge the work, the efforts or the heart, it’s being received. And to find comfort and fuel in those small moments as the one I had the privilege of having last week. And I’ll be honest, those last longer that the awards or plaques that don many people’s offices.
And before I close out this quick blog, I want to say t
hank you to all of you who read my blog, to my #SAChat community who have let me talk you’re ear off, who have shown me patience and understanding when I ask questions, who have taught me something new or have allowed me to cry on your shoulder, and who have invited me to share my journey with you this past year!
Until next time,
Peace, Love and Pandas!
Hello World, Its Me, Brian 