Coughs, sneezes, aches, and pains, OH MY!

Today I learned that another good friend was about to take on a major battle for her health.  I am reminded of the most important tool to fight against any illness, not just cancer: Maintaining a positive attitude.

That’s the least I can do, but it can also be the most challenging.  However, if it helps someone I WILL do it.  Why keep a positive attitude? Again, it goes back to other posts I’ve made.  Attitude is energy and energy is powerful.

Negativity is a virus that drains everything it encounters. Positivity brings about real change. It’s easier to fall into the “woe is me” thoughts.  However, I promise you, people will experience great change when trying to find light in darkness.

I challenge you to try it. Think of something you desire. Make a statement to the universe. Focus on it.

One year of high school we had a cheer sponsor who shared the following quote with us, “If your mind can conceive it and your heart can believe it, you can achieve it.”

Angie, Heather and Kimberly—this is dedicated on your behalf.  I believe that the medical professionals who are working to improve your health will be able to achieve great things for you.  I know the battle will be rough, but I am confident you will find grace and healing.

Sending loads of positive energy your way along with so many others! 

With love, Heather Joy

Working to be a Pro

The power of the universe is awe-inspiring.  Last year this was solidified at my core.  Last February after an incredible woman told me how her son and his friends thought I should be the next principal of AHS, I started the process to make it happen. 

Once I turned in my cover letter and résumé I began to make proclamations to the universe,  “I will be the next principal of AHS.”  Universe responded and I became the principal.

Last week I said to various people that our wrestling team would beat Williamsburg in the first round of the State Dual Tournament.  They did, by 1 point. They finished in fourth place, both at individual state and team state.

This morning I read a fellow school administrator’s blog about anti-bullying and about how schools should be focused on pro-kindness.  It reminded me of something Mother Teresa had said, “I was once asked why I don't participate in anti-war demonstrations. I said that I will never do that, but as soon as you have a pro-peace rally, I'll be there.”

She knew the secret.  I find it to be more and more true.  When I find myself feeling down, that is how my world is. When I put thoughts and statements of how fortunate I am, amazing things happen.

The pro-kindness is what I want to put into circulation for all around me…especially my students.  I need to do a better job for calling on people for the good ways they treat one another. 

AHS has AMAZING people within its walls.  It is my responsibility to do more to recognize them.  I welcome any creative ideas others are willing to share.

Looking forward to being more of a PRO:

Pro-kindness

Pro-family

Pro-friendship

Pro-innovation

Pro-education

Pro-communication

Pro-progression

Pro…

More two-way streets needed for travel

We need more two-way streets than those that travel only one-way.  Too many times lately I’ve had conversations about the lack of respect of this person to so-and-so, this teen to that adult, that adult to that teen, the list is as long as there are types of relationships.

I was raised that this is a basic courtesy I am to extend to all I come into contact with.  My parents insisted on it. My teachers expected it. My friends welcomed it. I appreciated it.

However, the more I gained a sense of who I was the more I gained an understanding of who deserved my respect.  Ultimately, I respect people for numerous reasons, such as:

1.     Honesty: It’s easy to respect people who are truthful with me.  There’s nothing worse than doubting what someone tells me.

2.     Hard work:  I value people’s efforts so much and get frustrated by those who only skim by.

3.     Stay true to who they are: This is one of the hardest things for people to do. I say, “There’s only one of you in this world.  Be YOU!”

4.     Those who strive to make a difference: The world needs more givers and fewer takers.

5.     People who do what they’ll say they’ll do.

What I do to show respect:

1.     Listen, in fact, I listen harder.

2.     Be considerate.

3.     Keep my promises.

4.     Show up on time.

5.     Use my manners.

6.     Encourage others.

7.     Be fair.

8.     Go out of my way.

9.     Help others maintain their dignity.

10.  Do not make assumptions.

I do believe that everyone should be given respect from the get-go, but that doesn’t automatically equate to that it’s always kept.  It has to be maintained.

I look forward to traveling down more two-way streets.  I hope others will join me in my travels.