“Part of who we are becoming and what we go through to realize how we shine is always a process…. What are the strengths that somebody brings to the table and how do we teach to that?” This sentiment was shared by LaVonna Roth on Dr. Brandon Beck’s Unlocking Unlimited Potential podcast. She went on to share that understanding the strengths that somebody brings to the table and teaching those strengths is crucial. 

Have you ever had those days when you feel like your inner light is dimming? Perhaps unexpected challenges have thrown you off course, leaving you struggling to stay afloat. In those moments, it can feel like you’re desperately treading water, waiting for someone to toss you a life preserver. 

You’re not alone; not one bit. That was me this week. In fact, my exhaustion reached a level that hindered me from being the best version of myself. Consequently, with a multitude of tasks to complete, I began feeling extremely guilty for not being fully present where I needed to be.

Then, my shine was ignited when a life preserver was thrown to me. I was sitting across the table from my colleague Amanda Hauser who shared, “A strong purpose leads to a strong process.” This sentiment resonated deeply with me, instantly guiding me back to where I needed to be, reconnecting me with my purpose.

In that same meeting, another colleague shared that the people sitting around her are her greatest resource while simultaneously turning to me with a smile. I could feel her shine filling my heart with warmth and encouragement, serving as a reminder that in moments of doubt or uncertainty, we can always rely on the support and wisdom of those around us. It was a powerful affirmation that we must embrace the process to realign ourselves with who we are meant to be.

When we feel like we’re gasping for air, where are the pockets of shine waiting to be found in our daily moments?

This week, I had the privilege of meeting with a passionate aspiring leader who is already a leader in so many capacities and is making significant contributions to our educational community. I am fortunate to have her as an intern and collaborate with me on a literacy project that aims to ignite students’ shine for literacy.

I met with another group of teachers who were eager to spearhead a book club for their colleagues, embarking on a process of collaboration, learning, and growth to illuminate each other’s shine. How beautiful is that?

Witnessing teachers step up to facilitate professional learning sessions for their colleagues and reflecting with a thought partner on a recent conference we attended, crafting a learning experience to share that information, were all moments filled with shine.

Walking into classrooms and observing students writing with enthusiasm, rushing to me to share their words and pictures, their smiles were bright, a truly shining moment.

As I continue to reflect on the encounters of the week with passionate educators and students, our ongoing quest to discover our shine persists amidst the ebb and flow of daily challenges and celebrations.

“Part of who we are becoming and what we go through to realize how we shine is always a process….”

You are going to have days when you are searching a little harder and looking more deeply for your shine. That is a part of the journey of finding who you are and who you are destined to be.

Keep looking for the rays of light among you who illuminate your shine. Shine together. Let that feeling bring you back to your purpose.

Let the process reignite you.