Lena Remembers Mrs. McCall

This is probably a strange thing to remember, but I have a clear memory of the mirror in my fifth grade classroom. Between my classroom and an adjoining classroom was a restroom with a full-length mirror outside the door. Because we were getting to that self-conscious pre-teen stage, my friends and I always checked ourselves when we walked by that mirror. Instead of fussing at us to get back to our seats, Mrs. McCall found a way to leverage the power of the mirror.

Our teacher began using dry erase markers to write affirming messages on the mirror, and she changed the messages every week. I remember reading ‘There is no one else like you’ and ‘You’re going to do big things.’ My favorite mirror message was a big arrow pointing to the center of the mirror accompanied by the words ‘You’re one of Mrs. McCall’s favorite kids.’

It was such a simple thing, but those mirror messages made a big impact. At a time in my life when I felt awkward and unsure of myself, my teacher found a way to change my self-talk. I am the parent of two pre-teens now, and I write messages on their bathroom mirror all the time. I’m grateful to Mrs. McCall for inspiring me to add a little bit of positivity to the day.

I hope Lena’s story helped you see how much your work matters.

Julie

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