My library account said that I had two items that were overdue. I knew my items were not overdue. I knew this with the same certainty that I know that I will, at some point this week, misplace my car keys. Lose car keys, yes. Lose library materials? Never.

I know this because I neurotically track my borrowed books, CDs, and Audio books as prized possessions. They get a special bag that transports them carefully, and the inventory sheet stays with the bag.

So when I saw the email notice indicating my tardiness, I used it as an excuse to scoot off to the library on a Sunday afternoon.

I found the nicest librarian, and she and I together found the truant CDs right there on the shelf, where they belong. She apologized for the error, and I told her that I was grateful for the excuse to make the trek. Perusing the shelves of the library is like waking up on Christmas morning. You never know what you’ll find. I discovered 6 new treasures to take home today. What a great break!

I think the reason I enjoy books so much is the way books allow me to explore the world through someone else’s perspective, and from their corner of the universe. For a moment in time, I get to feel what that author portrays. I get to breathe their air and experience their world. And I get all this from a visit to my local library.

Big thanks this week to all of the librarians who help people find just that right book to transport them to that other world.

Mary Kelly
www.ProductiveLeaders.com

I had a conversation with a friend, and I confess that I was getting a bit irritated. She was upset because she was reassigned for the school year to difficult class in a different school district. She was upset because she thought these students would be less prepared, have fewer resoures, and that this school year would be a lot more work.
My perspective was completely different. I told her that she had the opportunity to make a huge difference in the lives of these children, that she would be forced to be more resourceful and more creative, and that yes, this was going to be more work but in the end, it would make her a better teacher.
Jobs and work and careers and LIFE isn’t about what is easiest, it is about trying hard to do our best, and hoping that along the way, we somehow made a differnce.
Most people say that they had one or two teachers in their life who really made a difference in their lives. Every semester and every year, everyone who teaches gets the chance to be that one or two big influences. Yes, it takes work and effort , but wow, how cool is that?
I think my friend is lucky to be in this role, and I admire her for doing what she does.
My first grade teacher, Mrs. Ginger Boehm, challenged me, encouraged me, and made me work. She made an incredible impact on my life, and I consider myself tremendously fortunate to still be in contact with such an amazing lady. She is one of my teachers who made a difference to thousands of students.
So, as we start this school year, a big thank you goes out to the teachers out there who are making a differnce every day.
From Mary Kelly
www.ProductiveLeaders.com
Mary@ProductiveLeaders.com