Shayla Rivera

When we aim to reinvigorate our lives we are often encouraged to stop where we are and begin anew. We must focus on the future, on goals and what can be and, almost without noticing, we turn our backs to all that has already been experienced. A great story is never one that is in perpetual reset. The most compelling stories are told by those who understand and appreciate how far they have already come. Only by reframing our stories, as the Hero’s Journey they are, we will find the gifts and wisdom we have already accumulated. Once we do it for ourselves, then, we will be able to help our students do the same. Taking a look at our story with new perspectives, acceptance and yes, humor, we find the evidence of our resilience as well as the pearls of knowledge and wisdom picked up along the way.