It was late in the WHS softball playoff game last Saturday when lucky number 7 hit a dinger over the wall, added to the lead and made the game out of reach for the other team. When Aubrey Brown rounded 3rd, her teammates were waiting at home plate to celebrate her achievement. In the stands, there was little speculation of who her family was. They were on the front row. Mom, dad, and grandparents. They celebrated with gusto for her first home run as a varsity player in a playoff game on a beautiful, sun-filled day in May. Aubrey, if there was ever any doubt that you are a shining light for your family, move forward knowing that your light shines bright. Your light makes the world a more luminescent place.
As I was informed by an Akin 3rd grader this week, we have “seven more sleeps” until the last day of school. A pandemic was the last thing on this frog’s mind. He was just as happy and hopeful as he would have been any other year. I am grateful for our kids who have made the best of a very different year. The custodians who have kept our rooms clean and safe. The bus drivers who have disinfected surfaces and somehow managed to let their riders know they were smiling behind their masks. The Wylie ISD educators were part of one of only two large school districts in the Metroplex that started school on day one. The parents provided so much grace, love, and trust. These people made this year possible. These people made this year great.
Together, we are a family. Together, we have lit the way, guided the path, kept us warm, and, most importantly, provided a beacon of hope when we needed it the most. Together, we have celebrated home runs, stock shows, marching bands, and the simple achievements that turned our trepidation into celebration. Together, we have shined a light on the good things that matter.
We can all see the light at the end of the tunnel as case rates have fallen and life is returning to normal. My encouragement to you is to take the time to notice the light around you. It doesn’t have to be a home run or a diploma or a gold medal. It can be a kid counting sleeps, a great conversation, an opportunity to pay a compliment, a chance to write a note or a simple word of encouragement. The light that gave us the courage to start this year remains in all of us with our faith and trust taking the place of fear and concern. Although it is sometimes difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel, it is always there. It illuminates our pathway and allows us to take each step forward with hope and love, the Wylie Way. Have a great “seven more sleeps” Wylie family. It is my blessing to travel on this journey with such amazing folks, and I have never been more proud!
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