The Discomfort of Recognition

I recently received notice that I am to be honored as an Outstanding Leader in Education from my alma mater the University of Maryland’s College of Education. It also falls on the 50th anniversary of my graduate program in college counseling. I was deeply humbled and could hardly speak about it without choking up. I have always had difficulty accepting praise. It embarrasses me in part because I don’t like to be singled out and set apart from others. Most often, I believe any good things I accomplish happen because of the fine work of those with whom I have the pleasure to associate and I guess it also comes from growing up in a family where what one achieves is not nearly as important as what one has yet to do.

Nevertheless, I believe it is important for us all to celebrate success, to hold up worthy achievement and praise it, and to use it as an example for ourselves and others. Lord knows, in tough times, we need people who we can recognize and follow. Over the years, I have come to believe in the power of our own experiences and our own stories to teach and inspire. It is hard for many to claim the power in their own voice and to recognize that they have important stories to tell. Yet, I firmly believe we all do! When we want to learn lessons of leadership, of service, of sacrifice, and commitment we can look to our own stories and gain insight and understanding. When we want to explore the lessons of opportunities untapped, missteps taken, and talents squandered we can also look to our own stories. The first case raises us up and may inspire others. The later can be powerful lessons, but not if they become the dominant theme to which one pays attention. I think we are best when we listen and trust the goodness within and the stories that call us to be our best. Trusting ourselves and believing that these stories are legitimate and valuable is an important step in our growth. I guess accepting the praise and recognition that others might offer is part of the process. I may not be comfortable with it, I may not allow it to make me feel satisfied, but I can acknowledge it, be humbled by it, and celebrate it with others.