Healing & Human

What a roller coaster of a week and month. It was the anniversary of my dad’s death, and I’ve had four mammograms, two ultrasounds, two biopsies, and two MRI’s since January 17.

On Thursday, I had the privilege of sharing a message of hope with our school district. Don’t be too impressed. The staff development committee expressed interest in a keynote, and it was too late to find and pay someone. 🙂

I opened my keynote with a story about losing my dad to cancer and appreciation for my first grade teacher who helped me through that difficult year. I delivered this message on the same week that I found out that I don’t have cancer. I delivered this message on the day after the anniversary of my dad’s death.

In preparation for this, I mentally resigned myself to the fact that most people would probably feel “meh” about this presentation. I came to terms with the notion that perhaps a handful out of roughly 600 people might get something out of it. I was ready for that to be enough for me. There is added pressure when you present to folks you will see at work the next day.

But the universe gives us what we need when we need it.

People were kind.

And generally accepting of my vulnerability and honesty.

Which I think wins in the end.

None of us is perfect, and I think that is actually really beautiful.

Perfection isn’t the standard.

Humanity and healing are the standard.

So, if you are healing, and you are human, then you are exactly where you need to be. Our schools need adults who are committed to healing.

So keep showing up.

And man, I can’t help but marvel at how lucky we are to be alive. To see another sunrise and feel another hug. I’m living this life for both of us. My dad and me. And I’m more aware than ever how lucky I am to be here to see more years than he ever did.