Critics Spotlight Something

By Tara M Martin

Jan 02

It’s the mysteriousness of life that moves me. It’s fuel to my fire. I marvel at it.

In fact, I love diving into ideas, circumstances, (fill in the blank) and knowing not where it might lead. Being the driver of action research is far more fun than testing something that has already been proven.

It’s intriguing to me. It fuels my passion, no doubt.

Granted, I always run ideas through my why–my R.E.A.L. purpose. If it fits, it’s on like Donkey Kong. Or, in more professional terms, I’m in it to win it.

When others mock it, I confidently keep tweaking and adjusting. Many times I boldly stand alone and continue to explore. I’ve even joked when others tell me, “You can’t or shouldn’t (fill in the blank)!“

I’ve literally said back to them, “Grab a bag of popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the show!”

Yes, I’m that stubborn.

Soft and Squishy

However, there are times when my heart is super soft and squishy–very vulnerable. It’s as if one more squeeze and my mind will give into emotions. One more harsh word and the encourager might actually let her guard down and allow tears to leak–even if it’s just for a moment.

I know it’s part of life, but putting yourself out there to be judged isn’t always easy. I think of the most influential people I know, and I can’t help but believe that they too feel squishy-hearted at times. I mean they are human, right?

A friend of mine shared this quote with me today.

https://goo.gl/images/ini1PV

BOOM! 

I refuse to do nothing, say nothing and be nothing.

Therefore, criticism will come and threaten to kick my butt. It’s going to happen!

Sometimes I will strut away arms flexed. But, there are times I’ll give way to the river threatening to escape the windows of my soul.

Either way, I’m going to put my whole heart into my work.

And,

I will do something, say something, and be something because I wasn’t placed on this Earth to merely take up space.

I have a R.E.A.L. purpose in this life, and it’s greater than any obstacle that might try to stop me.

Critics Spotlight Something

To anyone feeling squishy-hearted,

be bold,

remember your WHY,

and keep going.

With fierce determination and sometimes a tear-stained face–don’t stop!

The critics are placing a spotlight on us.

Why?

Because we

do something,

say something,

and become something.

Maybe we should thank them (the critics) for making it easier for others to find us (the somethings) in this dark, cold world. Maybe.

Share
Tweet
Share
Share

About the Author

I am an educator who values the individuality and uniqueness of others. Writing the blog R.E.A.L. is an outlet for me to pay it forward by sharing ideas, influences, lessons learned and exposing a little vulnerability while encouraging others to maximize their R.E.A.L. potential, as well.

Joy Kirr

Tara, this reminds me of chapter 10 in Shift This. You WILL find resistance. It’s inevitable. How we react (or don’t react) is our choice. You’re on the right road. You may veer from it, but your family, friends, and others (like us!) will get you back on the road you were meant to be on. I’ve been there – done that – very recently. My heart has been scarred, but it makes me who I am. “It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.” – Lena Horne Carry it proud, Tara! (Or dump it in the trash!) xoxo

    Tara M Martin

    Thank you, Joy. I needed to read this today. I appreciate you, friend.

Dawn Wohling

Tara….once again your words speak right to my heart!! 🙂 I often feel as if the things I am attempting to do and the difference I am trying to make just really doesn’t matter because I am surrounded by yes but, people instead of yes and, people……but like you I refuse to give up…..in fact it often makes me more stubborn when I feel the weight of criticism for trying to do what I believe is best practice for my students and our school. I follow the never give up…..never surrender philosophy…..and now I have your do something, say something, become something words to follow as well!! Once again for being you…..and sharing your thoughts and ideas with us!! You truly do ROCK!! 🙂

    Tara M Martin

    Dawn, thank you for taking the time to share your reflections. Keep that attitude. We need be more of people in this world that question rather than answer.
    YOU ROCK!

Comments are closed

Previous Post Oh, Be Careful… Next Post Be Your Own Hero