Professional Learning Update

Live Life in the Moment

Dr. Demica Sanders, Director of Professional Learning, CLAS

As many of you know, I am a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, the greatest sorority on the planet (in my opinion). Cheryl Hickman, our 27 th National President, passed away recently. We were reminded of her life philosophy during her Omega Omega service: “Don’t measure life by the number of breaths you take, but by the number of moments that take your breath away.” Despite the fact that Cheryl Hickman did not originate the phrase, she used it at practically every event we attended.

As administrators, we frequently ensure the wellbeing of our faculty and staff, students, and community stakeholders, but how often do we genuinely live in the moment and appreciate those breath-taking moments? Close your eyes (seriously) and recall some of your life’s most memorable moments, such as the day you married your closest friend or the birth of your first kid. Nothing else mattered in those moments! For everyone, it was a period of immense delight and excitement.

It has been incredibly difficult to appreciate such moments over the last two years because we have all been too preoccupied with the pandemic. We are often busy trying to keep ahead of the next difficulty that will arise- whether to mask or not to mask, quarantine or not to quarantine, remote learning or in-person learning! It’s difficult to just exist in this time of chaos and confusion! “We’ve learned how to make a living, but not a life. We’ve added years to life not life to years” (Moorehead, n.d.).

In order to make a living, Emily Lockhart reminds us of some recommendations for living in the moment and embracing those priceless moments. In her article, she emphasizes the importance of a) appreciating the small pleasures in life, b) unplugging from any technology that prevents you from doing so, c) devoting time to those who are important in your life, d) allowing indulgences in your life, and most importantly, e) laughing loudly and often.... just because! The overall theme, if you’ll notice, is your life—it’s your it’s life, so live it! Please visit her article for additional recommendations to help you live in the now.

In addition to the suggestions provided above, I would suggest that you register for the CLAS Summer Convention. There will be time for networking with fellow administrators you haven’t seen in a while, in addition to the excellent professional learning opportunities.

In his book, Words Aptly Spoken, Bob Moorehead states the following:

Remember, to spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever. Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side.

Remember, to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn’t cost a cent.

Remember, to say, 'I love you' to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you.

Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person might not be there again. Give time to love, give time to speak! And give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind (Moorehead, n.d.).

As always, if CLAS can ever be of any assistance to you, do not hesitate to contact us!