Overcoming Obstacles
This morning, I had the honor of being the guest speaker at the Benton Middle School Awards Assembly. For me this was even more special because I grew up in Benton. I went to Benton Elementary and graduated from Benton High School. I had the chance to see a few of my old teachers. After I graduated they built Benton Middle School for grades 5-8th. Man did I feel old!
When the organizer asked me to do this several weeks ago… I asked her if there was anything specific she wanted me to talk about… she told me to just inspire the students. I spent last night thinking back to when I was in 7th or 8th grade. I kept trying to remember which guest speakers really influenced me at that age. Finally, I decided, I was going to tell them about obstacles I’ve had to overcome while in school. I remember in grade school I struggled with Math. I always had to stay after class and get extra help from the teacher. Sometimes after school my friend Christina, would tutor me. Then I remembered another tough obstacle came in college. A professor pulled me aside after class and told me I would never make it in broadcasting if I didn’t lose my accent. Being from Benton, I had a country twang (it still comes out every once and awhile!) So I went to the speech department on campus and asked for help. A graduate student spent several hours with me each day for four months to help me with my accent.
She, along with those teachers who took time to stay after class to help me, did it because they truly love their job and the students they teach. So, I say thank you, to those who have helped me grow into the person I am today.
Any tough obstacles you’ve had to overcome?
