Sometimes I cry....

I was recently in a #PIAChat on Twitter and Kelley McCall (@mccall_kelley) shared a quote "Vulnerability is the essence of connection and connection is the essence of existence" by Leo Christopher to go with a question about vulnerability.  Principals in my PLN openly shared their vulnerabilities. I quickly realized that I was not alone and that many of use wear our emotions on our sleeves in our jobs every day. I wear my emotions on my sleeve every day and I think that's ok! It's who I am... and my feelings are real and right there every single time!  My friend, Jay Posick said "Never hide who you truly are".
I've thought a lot about that this week which has led to this blog post....

I was given a necklace for my birthday that week from a student // It was exactly what I needed- b. u.

How often are we someone else? How often is it hard to be who you truly are?

The role of the leader of a school can be  lonely and rewarding at the same time.  Most of us take on these responsibilities because we care about kids.  I care about kids so much, I cry.  A lot.

Sometimes I cry when I'm talking with students because I have empathy for what they are going through. Sometimes I cry with parents because I am compassionate for their children and what they are going through. Sometimes I cry because I'm not sure I can take any more. Sometimes I cry because there was nothing I could do to help. Sometimes I cry because these kids make me so happy.

I've always been somewhat embarrassed by having emotions at the very edge of my being and that the wet eyes come so easily. This is who I am. I care and love deeply.  I feel others pain and feel compassion.  This is truly who I am.  I am me and I am going to be me.

I am also a strong woman and will wear this necklace proudly to remind myself that it is ok to be me!