I wrote my essay to get into college on the book All the Places You Will Go by Dr. Suess.
I can’t remember why I chose that book. We were supposed to pick a book that had a big impact on us. I’m sure some people chose Homer or Tolstoy or Toni Morrison. I chose – a rhyming children’s book.
And they still let me in.
I know, I’m surprised too. I wonder if that would still work today?
A couple days ago, my oldest son’s e-learning included a reading of that book. Even though I think we have it somewhere, I haven’t actually read through it in years. As I listened with him, I was struck once again by the wisdom of this book… particularly that Dr. Suess doesn’t sugarcoat anything. He does not shy away from a little reality. Every time you are built up to think that you can rule the world, he throws in:
“Except when you don’t because sometimes you won’t.”
Isn’t that fitting for a whole lot of what 2020 has been?
But despite the hits of reality, he also never forgets to shine a little hope as well.
“But on you will go though the water be foul. On you will go through your enemies prowl.
On you will go through the Hakeem-Kraks howl.⠀
Onward up many a frightening creek,
though your arms may be sore and your sneakers may leak.
On and on you will hike
And I know you’ll hike far
And face all your problems whatever they are….
Step with great care and great tact and remember that life’s a great balancing act.”
Today is the last day for my students and my son. And I think if I want them to carry any lesson on from this year it’s this – life is a great balancing act and they are so much more resilient than they know.
You, too, are so much more resilient than you know.
So smile big this Friday and show off even the back teeth…
“Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So… get on your way!”
