Every month this year, I hope to share 360° moments. Yesterday, I hung new posters in my K-5 classroom which also serves as the library. In my Husky Paw Pride class (social-emotional learning class), we have learned about responding to set-backs & developing a growth mindset. The library makes me remember my roots each day.
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In my SEL class, I shared how I was held back in 3rd grade; my challenges helped me to grow and get better. After 4th grade, I decided to read 500 books. I remember stuttering & trying to read. My brothers helped me reach my goal & the local paper featured my family; that summer has always been one of my biggest and proudest accomplishments.
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A few years ago, I lost both my biological parents. Just a couple days before my dad passed, he made sure to add me to his Ancestory account (priorities 🙂). I am able to see all of his hard work & see my family tree for the first time. When I was a kid, my mom never let me complete any family tree projects. She said our family was to “messed” up. I always completed alternative projects. After my dad died, I saw the big picture; he traced his paternal side back many generations, all the way back to Jacob Rhyan (1800-1875). Coincidentally, my son’s middle name is JACOB! What a great surprise to uncover, thanks to my dad.
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During Dec. 2021, I faced a few challenges. My car battery died, I lost my mentee, and over Christmas, I had COVID. It was a difficult month & even borrowed money to buy a test. I was hoping for zero extra expenses because of lost work pay.
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I am thankful. My family gave me a new car battery. Friends sent sympathy flowers. On Christmas Eve, friends dropped off dinner & gifts; on Christmas day, another friend dropped off supplies and a giftcard for my son. We wouldn’t have made it without everyone’s help. It is not lost on me that my son stayed healthy while we quarantined over the entire break.
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On New Year’s Eve, I took a selfie (grey hair included); this wasn’t just a selfie, but a snapshot of what happens when we embrace help & healing when we are sick & hurting.
We are stronger together.
Everything is going to be okay.
#livesoulinspired
Kimberly C. Rhyan 