A Letter by Miss C to all Struggling Junior High students
Dear Miss C,
I go to junior high and don’t like how it makes me feel. I am not a bad kid, but my teachers make me feel like I am and it makes me nervous and upset because I don’t want people to think I am a bad kid. Sometimes my teachers make me think I am dumb because I forget things and then they sign my card and I can get detention and then people think I am trouble maker but that’s not what I want to be. My mom talks to the school and stuff but it hasn’t really helped anything.
*** ***
Dear Readers,
I have received three letters similar to this in the past few months and so I am going to address all of you together. I welcome you to write me back or send new questions inspired by this, or any issue in which you feel led.
I admit, letters like these break my heart a little. I neither know the writers nor the schools they attend, but there is evidence of a communication breakdown. And this breakdown negatively affects everyone involved. But this column response is directed toward the students who have taken the time to write to me.
*** ***
Dear Struggling Junior High Readers,
You have inner strength and potential to grow into amazing adults. I want you to take a moment to think about someone you admire. Now describe that person to yourself and think about what characteristics make that person admirable? Those are often characteristics you wish you had more of for yourself. Now, who do you want to be and what do you want to do when you graduate? Picture yourself in that successful light! Because you know what is going to get you there? YOU! And you can’t let anyone stand in your way. It is going to be a lot of work, and every bit of it will be worth it, because YOU are worth it!
When I was your age, I thought I was going to be a Broadway star or a famous journalist. I had a guidance counselor who said I didn’t have what it would take to make it through college. And I had a teacher or two who were very hard on me and made me not feel very good about myself. Sometimes I got picked on by other and older kids. Some of my school years were not so easy.
But here is the thing, you cannot let experiences define you or how you feel about yourself! You think a teacher is always on your case? Think back to that successful person you admire and remember, they probably struggled too. The difference though…instead of letting someone else define your potential, you define it yourself!
Teachers are in a unique position, I guarantee they want to see every student succeed (even if it doesn’t feel like it to you). But every student is different, so they might need a little help figure out what most inspires and motivates you. So, no matter how much you may not want to, reach out to your teachers. Tell them how you feel. If you just can’t talk to them in person (which I think is the best way to build good relationship), send your teacher an email. Every good communication builds your success path. If you happen to falter and miss a paper, then get into trouble….accept it, learn from it, and work to do better the next time. Your success and potential will be defined by you! Do not let your struggles and battles keep you back. Your teachers want you to own your success…and you can do it! Let NO ONE EVER tell you differently.
Blessings,
—Miss C
