Compassion is how we survive
For school board members and educational leaders, it is our districts’ measure of success
As I reflect upon the events of recent history, it is easy to become overwhelmed by the circumstances that surround me. It seems that so many things that lie just beyond the control of humanity often make such a tremendous impact on each of our lives. In the current time of pandemic and turmoil, I find myself questioning how mankind is able to survive, much less thrive. To me, the answer is compassion. In The Art of Happiness, Dalai Lama XIV stated, “Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive.” This sentiment was initially evident to me as a young immigrant when friends, family and complete strangers expressed compassion toward a scared teen in a new place. In my more recent experiences as a school board member, compassion has been marked by the countless individual efforts within our school organizations to provide opportunities for every student. Such compassion is what has kept Arkansas schools open and serving the needs of our children during the 2020-21 COVID-19 pandemic; however, the pur-
2 June 2021 Report Card
by Rosa Bowman ASBA President est form of compassion is often exemplified by the impact made through the life of a child. Cedrick Harris Jr. (CJ), was a child who made a difference through his truly compassionate nature. While he was tragically taken from this earth in an ATV accident at only 14 years old, his character has continued to positively impact others. CJ was an incredibly brilliant child, an exceptional athlete, and more importantly an extraordinarily compassionate human being. Possessing wisdom far beyond his years, CJ made it his mission to show respect and kindness toward everyone around him, especially those who were less fortunate. Although CJ is gone, his legacy now lives on in
the #BeLikeCJ movement, which has gained national recognition. The French writer Simone de Beauvoir once wrote, “One’s life has value so long as one attributes value to the life of others, by means of love, friendship, and compassion.” The lives of people like CJ exemplify the essence of de Beauvoir’s work and offer a glimpse of the compassion that we should all strive to demonstrate. As school board members and educational leaders, such compassion should be the measure of success that we set for our districts and educational communities, because compassion is truly the foundation that education is built upon. As we prepare for a new school year, it is crucial that we recognize the challenges that are ahead of us. Furthermore, it is equally important to realize that our hope for overcoming these obstacles must begin with a wholesome compassion for one another. John Holmes stated, “There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.” Through a simple smile, attending an extracurricular activity, or exercising patience in the face of adversity, our acts of compassion will surely guide our youth toward a brighter tomorrow.
