Lessons at LINC NT

There have a been a lot of lessons I've learned in time I've worked with LINC North Texas, which has been almost a whole year now.  And as this is my last blog entry before I depart for a two month journey to Guatemala to study Spanish (don't worry, I'm coming back),I thought I'd share some with you.    

In the Parent Nights, I've learned patience and kindness.   Having to organize masses of excited kids who don't always like to listen isn't always easy; and having  them work together with their parents as a team can be a challenge.  But in the end, its totally worth it. 

In projects with my peers I've learned the importance of teamwork --  that as much as I believe sometimes that I can do everything on my own, never refuse a helping hand or slap it away.  In this way, I've also learned excellence.

In our ESL program, I've learned compassion and dedication, continually fueled every week by our terrific teachers, Tamara and Sarah; every week I see their passion and interaction with the students as they give them something invaluable: not only the English language, but a piece of their own heart.

But overall, the most important lesson I think I've encountered by far is simply just 'being there' - really living in the moment wherever you find yourself and having a good attitude about things.  This can determine your entire experience.  This goes the same for life - that with an open mind and an open heart, you get the most out of the world, and in turn, the world receives you at your best.   This is an attitude I can carry with me always - throughout my community, across foreign countries, and ultimately back home.

Hope to see you all soon,

Brandon