Proud of Your Progress

June 4, 2022

To the kid who persevered and overcame to get back in the classroom. Who is perceptive and re-learning about friendships and allowing herself to begin to trust again. Who speaks out against wrong and teaches those around her while doing it. Who is finding her voice and advocating for herself, allowing others to see the greatness inside her more and more.

To the kid who quietly took a stand this year. Who said what was happening around her wasn’t right and removed herself from it. Even when it meant isolation and loneliness and grief and fear. Who gave up old connections to be true to herself. Who feels her feelings deeply and allows herself to work through them. Who is learning to recognize and face fears in beautiful and brave ways.

To the kid who stays true to himself and doesn’t allow the pressures of fitting in change how he shows up each day. Who is kind to all and an honest and true friend. Who perseveres even when things often feel hard and not related to the things he loves most. Who would rather play outside each day than join an organized team. Who is soaking up the best parts of childhood and wishing weekends were 5 days, not the other way around.

It’s been a long intentional shift as parents.

Now, we don’t talk about, ask about grades. We don’t care.

We focus on learning, on growth. Not winning, not awards.

We just want them to continue to learn how to be fully themselves.

They are worthy. No matter what.