I left Millry, AL in May of 1987, ready to face the world and my choices. I landed in Ft. Campbell, KY with the love of my life. I was 18, and I didn't have a clue about where my life was taking me. Twenty seven years later, six degrees later, I still wonder where I'm heading.
A New Direction!
In August, 2013 I left a position with a great company to chart my own course once again. I figured: (1) I wasn't getting any younger... (2) I wanted a new direction in my life... (3) AND... I thought "what's the worst that can happen?" Equipped with my knowledge, experience, and resolve, I began developing materials for students. Some 3 months later, Vann Ray released its first student module. Since that time, I have continued to build materials, provide professional development for schools, assist in curriculum building, write a couple of books, and network.
What I have learned!
Have I made mistakes along the way? Oh, you bet! Lots of those! I have learned that even if you have an awesome idea, you can bank on politics sabotaging it for you. I have learned that "MONEY IS AN ISSUE" in schools that cannot be negated. I have learned that just because people want success that is not a clear indication they are willing to actually do what it takes to make it happen.
However, I have also learned there are awesome educators in this country. I have learned there are students scattered throughout our American classrooms who do want someone to mentor them and to show them how to prepare for their next phase in life, or at least point them in the right direction.
Where am I headed?
Gee... I wish I could answer that with any degree of certainty. But do any of us really know what a year or even 5 years hold for us? I watched the funeral services of my sweet precious niece, Ashley Helena Roberts, this past Sunday, and my heart was completely broken. I thought, "If anyone could make a difference in this world, Ashley would." But her life was taken much too quickly. So, with all due diligence and not fully knowing or understanding the significance of my existence at this time, I am resolved to just move forward. With renewed courage and determination, I will face the next work day and the next week. I will continue to use the skills I have to build a greater product, provide a greater service, and meet more needs of our schools. And may my epitaph of life read, "She used all she had, and she lived!"
In Memory of Ashley Helena Roberts (August 17, 1982 - April 10, 2014)
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