career day.

Career Day was one of those hurray-we-get-to-miss-class days. It was never taken seriously, and I can honestly say I never paid much attention to anything the guest speakers had to say. Today, for the first time, I listened. I listened as I, myself, spoke and as others spoke.

It was quite the strange feeling being on the other side of the presentation. Not only was I walking on new turf, but I was walking on new turf in a new environment. Today, I was given the opportunity to speak to 6th-8th graders at Franklin Middle School in Dallas. Prior to the presentation I thought about what aspects of my job would peak students' interests most. What I failed to realize was that most of these kids were just trying to get through middle school; the thought of college seemed far-fetched.

At a school where over 90% of the student population was comprised of Hispanics and African Americans, you could pretty much assume half of the kids would be lucky to walk across a stage and receive a high school diploma. They needed encouragement; they needed to know that just because they were not amongst the rich and gifted did not mean they would not amount to great things.

Aside from being an insipring experience, speaking to the kids made me appreciate everything around me. I am grateful for this computer in which I am able to type this blog. I am grateful for the selection of clean clothes I have to choose from each morning. I am grateful for a reliable vehicle which takes me to and from work. I am grateful for both of my jobs and all the opportunities I have had. I am grateful for the years of education I received through Plano schools and UT. Though I may not be atop the list of rich and gifted, I will proudly stand amongst the grateful.

Today, I am glad I paid attention.