Yesterday’s Home Runs

“Yesterday’s home runs don’t win today’s games.” – Babe Ruth

On Saturday, September 15, 2018,  I had the marvelous opportunity to attend the Foundation for Saline Area Schools Hall of Fame induction ceremony. As I listened to the eight outstanding individuals talk about their careers, accomplishments and their connection to the Saline community,  I was beaming with pride at the rich history and foundation that was laid for me by those who came before. They spoke of a deep sense of community amongst colleagues and the throughout the Saline city. They spoke of a willingness to learn and grow, to try new things, and to provide a stellar education for the students. Their tenacity, longevity, hard work, and commitment to have a positive impact on our community was quite humbling. I left feeling inspired.

Then, Monday happened… Mondays early in the school year are busy. The students and staff are still adjusting to the new schedules, new buildings, new teachers, and new classmates.  There are always programs, initiatives, and proposals that are just getting off the ground. By the end of the day, I was tired and felt like much of the inspiration and enthusiasm gleaned from some phenomenal mentors on Saturday night had been drained. I was reminded of the Babe Ruth quote when he was asked about his performance in the past and how he thought it would impact the game they were about to play.  He noted that yesterday’s home runs were not going to win today’s game.

I reflected on the speeches that I had heard, the highlights, the accomplishments, and the successes. There is no doubt that those Hall of Fame inductees built an incredibly strong foundation. From that foundation, we can continue to grow and get better. But, at the end of the day, even the end of a long Monday early in a school year, it is up to each of us to dig in and do the hard work necessary to continue to move this district and community forward.