When I think about an experience that made me who I am today, I am reminded of my adolescent years. I was beginning to question a lot more in life, looking deeper into myself as I struggled to find my identity. As the middle child of six in a busy household, I had become invisible and convinced that I didn’t have a voice that actually mattered. My grades dropped, I began displaying disruptive behavior in school, and I withdrew from any interaction with my family at home – I would come home after school and remain in my room, isolated from everyone. I was angry with the world, starved for attention, and much too selfish to look outside of myself for a positive outlet. All of my teachers and administrators at school gave up one me except for one, Ruth Medsker – the authoritative guidance counselor with whom I constantly ‘bumped heads’. I’m certain that I spent more time in her office as a result of my misbehavior than anyone else in the entire school, and I thought that she dreaded the sight of me. However, she actually cared deeply for me decided to reach out to my family by making a desperate phone call one day during my 8th grade year. She explained that she saw a light in me that I had somehow shrouded in darkness. She was determined to find a way to help me free myself, and suggested that I participate in a new all-girl discussion group on campus. I was really confused at first because I had convinced myself that Mrs. Medsker was an enemy, but I realized that she had only exhibited tough love. If it wasn’t for her persistence, I may not have become as resilient, joyful, and successful as I have today. That phone call changed my life and she wasn’t even required to make it. In fact, she was in the middle of a pregnancy and it was outside of school hours when she should have been resting. Mrs. Medsker had a vision for me when I wasn’t strong enough to have one for myself. She was action oriented and decided to go above and beyond. I realize that the mere fact that she made that call had a greater impact on me than the discussion group did — all I needed was to know that someone cared, and so my life was transformed instantly. Since that day, I’ve not had any issues at school whatsoever and have remained an honor’s student.
Mrs. Medsker is my hero, and it’s her example that I wish to employ and teach others when I serve. I’ve learned how one small act of compassion can change an entire generation — my children will experience the healing impact that Mrs. Medsker’s service brought into my life, and so will their children. I understand the value of taking action instead of just reacting to life, and staying the coarse when I have a dream, regardless of roadblocks. Lastly, I understand that is so important to serve others because we all need other people in order to get through life. The bottom line is that I always have resources that can help others, and the moment that I don’t share them is when my own life becomes meaningless. I believe that all people are connected, so when I help someone else, I am helping myself — the same is true when I hurt, or cease to serve others.
-Your Friend,
Rainfaerie
