Guest blog by SJ

A few months ago, I tested positive for COVID-19. The worst part wasn’t being sick, in fact, I was fortunate to have extremely mild symptoms, but I’m a teacher. I unknowingly exposed over 25 people (most of them kids and a few co-workers). I was devastated, embarrassed, and ashamed. As I was quarantining, I received messages from parents, co-workers, and friends asking how my day was going, if there was anything I needed, and just to let me know I was on their minds. I sincerely believe those messages helped me change my outlook on my current situation. I made a mid-year resolution to stop watching from the sidelines and become that person who lifts others.

It wasn’t long until I found myself on the other side of the coin, it is 2020 after all. I have held to my newly discovered resolution and I have made a bigger effort to let others know they are not alone. As a result, my relationships with others have grown stronger.

All it takes is a quick message to make someone’s day brighter. Not only is it free, but it makes a big difference. If we all take a moment to pay it forward, we can impact more people than we ever imagined.  -SJ