Dear LCN Readers,
One of the casualties of our busy lifestyles is the loss of time and opportunity
for reflection. I think that is one reason why the Thanksgiving holiday is so
important; it forces us, at least for one day, to reflect upon the goodness
in our lives. Most of us will share a meal with loved ones; some will pray and
thank a higher power for their blessings, some will not, but I imagine that
nearly all will look around the table and be in some way thankful for the loved
ones who are there, and for those who are loved and missed.
Joining our family this Thanksgiving will be a young man who is a 2003 graduate of West Point, where my husband and I work. 1LT Christopher Sanchez is like a son to us, and we are especially grateful that he returned home safely earlier this year after serving for one year in the Iraq war. One of the toughest realities about working in this learning center is that I know when my students graduate, they could go to war, and some may not return. The mother within me cries for them and is tempted to hold them back and keep them safe. The teacher within me steels them for the fight and urges them to take risks, grow, and graduate.
Each of us, as a learning assistance professional, steels his or her students for their good fight, whatever and wherever that fight that may be. We are on a mission, and we have a common bond-a love of students and a strong commitment to their success. Let us reflect upon the mission, be thankful for our students, and be grateful for each other. Happy Thanksgiving!
Mona
Questions or comments? Contact the author at Mona.Pelkey@usma.edu.