EXPECT NOTHING IN RETURN

EXPECT NOTHING IN RETURN

My parents taught me a very important lesson early in life. The message was clear and simple: “Always try to help people; do it out of kindness and expect nothing in return.” Honestly, as a teenager, I probably didn’t fully understand the concept, but regardless, my parents made sure I practiced that lesson. They had me mow yards for free. Every month, I would mow four yards, and even though I expected nothing in return, I am here today to tell you that I have received something in return. I have been blessed—blessed with a great family, wonderful kids, amazing friends, good health, and a fulfilling job. If you don’t know by now, trust that one good deed is always followed by another. 

This year, during Random Acts of Kindness Week, which coincided with the month of February, four of our students went out of their way to acknowledge our custodians. These girls decided to give our custodians a heartfelt Valentine’s treat, and just like me, they expected nothing in return. The custodians were overwhelmed with tears of joy. Fast forward to this past Friday—I received a phone call from our superintendent informing me that one of the custodians’ sons was so moved by our students’ kindness that he wanted to show his appreciation. Army Specialist Eli Mata came to our campus and treated our girls to Papa John’s Pizza. The girls were surprised and honored. Never in their wildest dreams did they expect this. Their original intent was to be kind, nothing more.

I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again: I have only been here for less than a year, but this act of kindness stands out as one of my proudest moments as the leader of this campus. There is no doubt in my mind that we will have other success stories, but this one will always stay close to home—literally.

Thank you, Elvira Ortega, Anamia Duran, Xitlali Coyote, and Diana Godinez, for the beautiful reminder. Keep making your parents and our community proud.