Bravery
As I titled this column, I knew that it would evoke in many readers a variety of definitions. For some, immediate images will pop-up of those who protect us from danger– whether they are soldiers in foreign lands, on our soil, or those whose roles have them protecting our data and cyber-security. There will be others whose thoughts immediately turn to our first responders and law enforcement professionals who are trained to run toward danger (while the rest of us are told to flee). However deserving these individuals and groups of heroes may be, there are two specific examples of bravery that I offer this week. The first are our students and staff who this year experienced the loss of a loved one–mother, father, grandparent, spouse, sibling–even a beloved pet.
Loss at any time is devastating, yet losses are often magnified during the holiday season. In today’s world, we are constantly surrounded by happy images of families gathering during the holiday season to share old and make new traditions. Many include meals, gifts and celebrations of all kinds–yet we have many among us whose tables now have an empty seat. There are rarely words that will bring understanding or comfort, however, as I recall the many losses endured this year in the Springfield family, I have witnessed efforts to do just that. We reach out to one another to simply listen–even cry together if that is what is needed. I see bravery in those devastated in their loss and bravery in those offering support. Grief doesn’t have a time schedule, and neither does friendship. This year, we have heard stories of lives cut short too soon due to the devastating disease–including COVID-19. The loss is real, to be sure. So, too, has been the outpouring of selfless support. I applaud the bravery of those on both sides of this loss … this grief. I offer whatever is needed to assist anyone during this holiday season and every day that follows–asking for support also is a very brave thing to do–and assistance for staff and students can be found through district resources. If you have experienced loss, we are here for you.
The other group of brave individuals to whom I wish to bring a little attention this week are our student volunteers. There are many, who with support from mentors, coaches and teammates, generously share their time and talents–often selflessly. There is one group that I have beeen watching take on the very hard role of speaking out against the use and abuse of substances and raise awareness of efforts to address stress and prevent teen suicide. They have told us that it is harder for them to remain mute on these topics than to endure the criticism from peers. I don’t know about you, but to me, that is bravery in its purest form. If you know or suspect that a student is struggling with the use or abuse of substances or feelings of self-worth, it also is a sign of bravery to speakup for them and help them find assistance. Again, we have trained staff available to assist our staff and students.
In closing, I offer the following quote from Rachel Marie Martin, “It is brave to feel emotion. It is brave to fight for your heart. It is brave to show up for each other. It is brave to forgive. It is brave to start over. It is brave to love. It is brave to let go. It is brave to not fit in. It is brave to dream. It is brave to be you.”
