Teacher Pain

Dear Student Leader,

I write these weekly letters/ blog posts to share ideas with you. Self-discipline and creativity enable me to teach you through this medium. But listen, you don’t need to rely on me for lessons.

Pain, challenges, and suffering are various names for teachers in your daily life. I’m not advocating for masochism. Please don’t interpret this week’s teaching as “seek pain and receive pleasure.” And don’t conflate it with Republican claims of “short-term pain” to justify poor decisions.

My message asks you to reconsider difficulties as a present wrapped in ugly paper. Gifts abound in the boxes of problems. A blessing in disguise is cliché, but sometimes it captures the perfect sentiment.

Sometimes, we think “God is punishing me, “because…happened.” Could it be that God or your name for a Higher Power is preparing you for something else?

Every week, I run 50 miles or more to train for the next marathon. Do you think every time I hit the pavement, I feel bliss? I don’t.

Many times, just the idea of running is painful. I prolong my warm-up and use the bathroom multiple times to avoid going outside. The anguish is compounded after I reach the latter miles of long runs.

Physical, mental, and sometimes spiritual strength is tapped to finish. Determination, discipline, and dedication to improving as a runner and achieving mental clarity serve as fuel.

I want to finish each marathon with a sprint, as Nathan Martin did in LA, to win in the final seconds.

Do you think Nathan was tired or in pain? Likely, he experienced both, but his goal to cross the finish line pushed him through.

Consider the challenges of Harriet Tubman and the pain she endured for freedom. Watch the film Harriet on Netflix for a glimpse into the dangers of her running journeys. It portrays the fears and courage of a woman on a mission.

When difficult moments fall from the sky like raindrops during spring, it’s time to refocus on your goals. Go back to the source for inspiration. Ask yourself two questions.

1. Where are you going?

2. Why is your destiny/destination important?

Reflection can help you manage a mental health crisis. Sometimes, pausing and contemplating purpose works. Other times, you need a therapist or a support group.

Recent data reports an increase in suicide deaths among Black youth.

The struggles some encounter to find their authentic voice while also managing poverty, surviving racism, and understanding how their sexuality influences self-worth. Stigmas around treatment and traumas influence the desires of some young people to live.

As leaders, we must help. People from underserved communities need mentors, resources to access mental health professionals, and intentional culturally responsive support groups.

Inflated egos and gas prices dictate politicians’ priorities. It’s on us to bring about the changes we want in our communities.

Leadership work is painful sometimes. We will not enjoy every moment. But remember, Teacher Pain means you well.

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This post was previously published on Vernon C. Lindsay, PhD blog.

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