Friday Flush -- Journey

Ok, when you think of the word “Journey” what comes to mind?   Ok, once you are done singing “Don’t stop Believin’,” we can continue. 

I think a journey is a great metaphor for the careers that we choose as well as our lives in general.  We often focus our attention, energy, and worry on the destination.  We focus on the end result.  And to some degree that makes sense, that is the part we are “graded on” typically.  But, the end result is the least important factor in my opinion.  I think the most important factor is the journey, the second most is the beginning, and then last is the end result.  We learn in the journey….we grow in the journey….we are able to enjoy lives and our friends only during the journey. 

The great thing about a journey is that it is personal…there are parts that you can walk alongside others, but ultimately each person has their own.  We are responsible for what we learn, what we do, where we go, the goals we set, and our satisfaction in the process.  I struggle with that last one… I can set goals….I can achieve goals….but I don’t have satisfaction in the journey all the time.  I don’t “stop and smell the roses” very well, but that is truly where life is.

How does that relate to a classroom?  Kids all their own journey…they all are headed very different places…they all need tools and guidance.  We help them take their next step, so that they are ready.  But, the journey for them should be a process, and we should find ways to intentionally point out the process to them.  They need to learn that through difficult times, they gain character and determination.  They need to learn that not reaching your goal might teach perspective.  They need to be shown those things, so as adults, they are more equipped to succeed. 

You have a journey…walk it….don’t worry about others.  They haven’t been in your shoes…you have a next step too.  Don’t be afraid if it looks different than those around you.  Take that perspective and realize that every kid in this building needs a next step in some direction.  We can provide that.

Thanks for all you do!  Happy Friday!