
Man’s heart away from nature becomes hard
Monks and holy guides of many different faiths agree that each person has their own “grace.” As Thomas Merton writes, “And each way is a grace, a special way is a special grace.”
I see something in you that you don’t see in yourself.
— Mrs. Robinson
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.
Ron Walker
I have been blessed to be an educator for 54 years. Though I am no longer formally in the confines of a schoolhouse, I regularly meet with young men and women who seek my counsel and elder wisdom. For the last 16 years, I have led a national non-profit, the Coalition of Schools Educating Boys of Color (COSEBOC). In my spare time, I exercise, cook special meals and love a good movie.
Join the Conversation
Your voice matters! Join the discussion by posting a comment or replying to an existing one. We’d love to hear what you think. Stay friendly, stay curious!
Read the Stories and Meet the People Who Wrote Them
Wander around and see which stories speak to you. Each story contributes to our collective experiences, creating a bridge of shared understanding.
Share Your Story and Be a Bridge Builder
Reflect on a meaningful saying, quote, poem or song. It could be an old family saying, a quote that inspires you, or a heart-touching poem or song.
Support Us
Our project relies on volunteer efforts, your support would be greatly appreciated to help keep this initiative going. Thank you for considering supporting us!
Monks and holy guides of many different faiths agree that each person has their own “grace.” As Thomas Merton writes, “And each way is a grace, a special way is a special grace.”
On the mantel above my fireplace sits a representation of Quan Yin. I keep her there where I can always see her, because she embodies my intention and my spiritual practice as a human being and as a writer.
I lived in my suburban townhouse for nine years before I set foot inside a neighbor’s house. I knew their names and enough for a few minutes of small talk, but after that it felt safer to hurry back inside…
My husband and I moved to Vermont, in part, because of our love for the land and farming. We filled our new homestead with native plants to support pollinators. This year, our farmer neighbor decided to plant corn on our border – corn laced with pesticides…