Growing up as a young Black man in the city of Philadelphia was replete with memorable experiences and learnings that have stood the test of time. The sharing of pearls of wisdom and uniquely crafted statements given to the younger generation by our elders was part of the growing up and maturing process.

I began my career as a teacher. My students enjoyed the way that I engaged them in the learning process and they excelled. I was satisfied, even comfortable, with being a teacher.

However, one day, Mrs. Robinson, a highly-regarded educator and respected woman in the community, said something to me that would change the course of my career and ultimately my life. She said, “Ronald, you are an exceptional teacher but I see something greater in you that you don’t see in yourself. You will always be a teacher, that is your God-given gift, but you also have the gift of leadership. You could be a principal. Have you ever thought about that as a career path?” My reply was a quick, “No,” but I paused to think about it.

I discovered that these words were not unique to Mrs. Robinson. These were words of uplift, inspiration and motivation passed on from the elders, who lived in my all-Black neighborhood, to the children and aspiring young adults. It was their loving way of saying; you can do anything that you set your mind to do.

Thank you, Mrs. Robinson.  Now it’s my turn to share those words.