jL In Practice | Still (Im)perfect after 250 years

Still (Im)perfect … after 250 years…

I’m a patriot at the core and annually love every minute of the flyovers, drone shows, firework displays, time with friends and family, etc., but this year has been truly special. 

Despite being in NYC on America’s 249th birthday (or DC on the 243rd), the 250th somehow feels bigger and better.  The part that feels best to me is the recognition that, while not without its faults, struggles, or ongoing challenges, I still consider myself extremely fortunate to live in the greatest nation in the world.  

As a teacher, the fact that I can be so proud of something that remains so deeply flawed after 250 years gives me hope.  I too often get caught up in the frustration that we’re not perfect and lose sight of how beautiful a group of desperately flawed individuals can be when they’re trying to get it right.  I’ll never get close to 250 years in the classroom (think TRS only requires 130 at this point ;P), but the American example gives me both hope for the future and permission to be imperfect.  I’m forever grateful for both.

President Clinton once said, “There’s nothing wrong with America that can’t be fixed by what’s right with America.”  Remember: every time you enter the classroom, you have the opportunity to impact part of what’s right with America - thanks for giving them all you’ve got (even if it will forever be imperfect). 

Hope you’re taking an opportunity to rest and regroup - you deserve it!