Look how much you have grown

Dear Students,

I know that you are watching and listening to all that is happening in the world, in your city, in your school, and in your home. For sure you might be fearful when the voices are loud and you feel hurt. But you listen and you learn and you grow. You will be okay. Growing and learning makes you strong.

You might have heard talk about learning loss and how far behind kids are today. But since you are always growing and learning, you will look for the facts. And one fact is that it will take some time before the data that is being gathered right now will be analyzed. And then there will be the analysis of what the effects and the impact all this will have on you. And for sure, you keep on growing. And for sure, you keep on learning. And more data will be gathered…

Please hear these words right now. Think about who you are right now at this moment in time. I want you to know that who you are right now, in this very moment is exactly enough for you to continue to grow and to continue to learn. And while you might be hearing of what you have lost, please think of all that you have gained. Think of all that you have learned in the last years of your wonderful life.

You have learned how to grow strong in your family, and in your neighborhood, and in your community. You have learned that your family and your neighbors are supportive of each other. You have learned how people look out for each other during tough times and how everyone helps out.

And while the days are sometimes dark, you need to know that you are the bright spot of light. And when the days seem hopeless, you need to know that you are the spark of hope. And when the days appear joyless, know that you give joy to others. 

You help all of us to remember to laugh and to move forward. With you by our side we will always, always figure out ways in which this world can be better. And you will continue to grow and to learn.