Inspiration

[J_Byrd]

Most of you know that I am a special education teacher in a high school. I would be telling a lie if i didnt tell you that some days are pretty rough and frustrating. Everyone has issues in life, ups and downs, things go wrong, feel like they are getting the short end of the stick, whatever. Well I had a young lady graduate this semester with a normal high school diploma. She is eligible to go to a four year university, but will be going to a local community college. I want to give you a little back ground on her.

This young lady finished high school at 20 years old. She was born with fetal alcohol syndrome, MS, which lead to a cognitive heart issue. She was physically abused by her family, and her mother is currently in prison for other crimes. No father to speak of, and was raised by a friend of the family. Doctors have told her she will not be able to walk much longer, but refuses to use a wheel chair. Strong winds can knock her down, she can hardly lift a book, yet carries her own book bag.

She never seems down on life, always walked in my door with a smile on her face. Was happy to discuss her physical issues with anyone who was interested. She is no push over either. If you say something she disagrees with, she will let you know!

Finally on her last day of class I had to tell her. She really was an inspiration to me, and that if she can get up happy and ready to attack the day each day, then I sure as hell can to!

[MC]

I love this story! I miss working with students and seeing them achieve these milestones. It's what keeps you motivated to be an educator.

[BendtheBar]

She never seems down on life, always walked in my door with a smile on her face. Was happy to discuss her physical issues with anyone who was interested. She is no push over either. If you say something she disagrees with, she will let you know!

That made my day.

I love people like her. Thanks for sharing that.

[Mr.Silverback]

Thank you Jb, it makes working with students that much more worthwhile! God Bless

[ffemtny]

As a Nurse and Paramedic, I've seen time and again people who take lemons and make lemonade, who choose to fight when all seems lost, do it with dignity, and leave me in awe. Definitely makes up for the ones who seem miserable for no good reason or those who just do their best to get under your skin. These people when I run into them remind me why I chose/choose to be in healthcare.

[elijah]

Thanks JB for reminding us we have PLENTY to be grateful for and that no matter how bad we think we have it, there are plenty of others going through things much more difficult. What an honorable position/job you have...

[Hunterace]

Great stuff JB, thanks for sharing!

[EliteDreams]

People are still amazing. Thanks JB.

[j4ck3d]

JB what a great story. It is a true inspiration. Good for her for not wanting to be down, and for trying to acchieve something.

[SCStrong]

Great post - She is truly awesome ... may God bestow blessings and mercy upon her. Makes me sorry for all the time I waste being a whiny ass when my day gets "tough"..... I hope this young lady keeps kicking butt!!!!
And as for you- Thank you for the work you do.

My mother had Muscular Dystrophy and lived in agony most of her life ( unable to walk, and later move ) but she raised and inspired me,...... as well as so many others. I miss her.