Life Motto

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I teach second and third graders. For years, I've had our class motto posted on my wall. It's three simple sentences, but they carry a lot of power—not just for kids, but for adults too.

Confession time... I'm three years away from retirement, and the struggle is real. My mom used to say about kids, "If we could just bottle that energy, we'd be all set!" Lately, I've been really feeling my age, and the gap between the kids' energy levels and mine seems to widen daily.

On the hardest days, I honestly question if I still have what it takes to be with 20 kids day after day.

Many times, I have to remind myself to take a break, reflect, and not be so hard on myself when difficult days come. After all, struggles and challenges are universal. It's truly just part of being human.

Looking at the class motto, I find encouraging words that I try to instill in my students.

​Let me now share these words with you and the woman I see in the mirror as well.

​My goal is to let you know that you are not alone and that you will make it through whatever challenge you may be facing right now.

I am special! (Yes you are!)

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In Psalms 139:14, it talks about us being "fearfully and wonderfully made." There is no one who is, was, or ever will be exactly like you or me.

It's quite an amazing fact to ponder when you think about the number of people who have lived on this earth. We are originals, created by God with a wonderful and unique plan and purpose.

I recall hearing a sermon years ago that shared how God had your purpose first and then created YOU to fulfill it! That was so inspiring because the speaker explained it was NOT the other way around, like "here is this random person, and what are we going to do with this one?"

​When the dark days come, remember how much you mean to others and to God. There is no one who could ever take your place, and you are allowed to be a masterpiece and a work in progress all at once.

I am smart! (Yes, you are!)

Many times in life, I feel overwhelmed and inadequate to tackle what comes my way, especially in my career. Staying frozen in this state does no good.

Confusion is stressful. I love this quote and I tell myself often:
"You are NOT confused, you are figuring it out."

By reframing the words, it puts the power back in my hands. I am growing and learning every day about what to do and not to do. It may take time, but I WILL figure this out.

​The same is true for you. Give yourself credit and time to get this right, whatever it is you may be going through.

​Often, life throws us real curveballs with no guidebook. We all need time and patience, but we will get there.

I will try my best! (That's all anyone can ask!)

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My mom used to say, "Do your best and let God do the rest." As believers, we have the true advantage of partnering with Christ in all we do. We try our best, but often we fall short, and that's okay.

Truth be told, I come to the end of myself often. I wonder if my best is even good enough many days. In those times, I am reminded that in God's word He promises to never leave us or forsake us, and reassures us that when we are weak, He is strong.

Jesus and I make a great team, and when I have done my best but there is still work to be done, I know He will do the heavy lifting in my situation. All I have to do is ask.

The same God we read about in the Bible is alive and well today and on our side.

​Pretty incredible, don't you agree?
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Call to Action:

If you found encouragement in these words, take a moment to reflect on your own journey. Remember, you are fearfully and wonderfully made, with a unique purpose only you can fulfill. When challenges arise, take a moment to breathe, reflect, and remind yourself that you are not alone.

Share your thoughts, struggles, and victories with someone you trust, and don't hesitate to reach out for support when you need it.

​Let's continue to uplift and inspire each other.

Feel free to leave a comment below sharing how you navigate tough times or what keeps you motivated. Together, we can create a community of strength and resilience.

Until next time, Dana

Please follow me on Facebook at Little Lessons Learned by Dana here.

Tags: growth mindset, you are special, you are smart, problem solving, encouragement, class motto, classroom management

Copyright: © 2025 littlelessonslearnedbydana (Dana Romualdi) 

Author

Dana Romualdi is a Canadian elementary teacher, blogger, author, and speaker. She wholeheartedly desires to "love God and love people." With a passion for helping others and spreading much-needed encouragement, Dana makes a positive impact wherever she goes. She lives in Canada with her husband and two grown children.