Losing a Winner

I have previously blogged about teachers who have positively impacted my life but, as a teacher, that is a reciprocal relationship.  My students have also made significant changes in my outlook and have helped shape the person that I am.  Often we hear people referred to as 'losers'. In my career, I have been very fortunate to have crossed paths with a few exceedingly wonderful students; kids with a twinkle in their eye and a fire in their belly.  These students are the ones I call 'winners' for they have a gravitational pull to them; a mix of charisma, ambition, poise, confidence, grace, dignity and integrity that lets everyone know that they will be successful at whatever they set out to do and, in doing so, will truly make the world a better place.  In my experience, theses winners are like a jet without a firm flight plan and, by giving them some ideas, and a little targeted direction, you can watch them take off...it is truly a thrilling experience.

I just returned from a wonderful holiday with my family to hear the shocking news that one of my 'winners' lost her life in a tragic car accident.  Morgan Lipinski was a 21 year old firecracker.  There was nothing that she couldn't do or at least wouldn't try.  When we met she was the president of the school's Student Leadership Council and I was the staff advisor.  We planned many school activities and events together and I marveled at her enthusiasm and energy.  Morgan could get anyone to buy what she was selling and she truly made the school a better place.  I also had the opportunity to supervise her on her work experience placement with a local residential design firm.  After only one week as a high school work ex. student, she had mastered auto cad, was updating the company's website and she was asked for and provided her ideas at weekly staff meetings including submitting moderate design changes to existing projects.  I was honoured  to hand her the numerous scholarships and awards that she won in her grade 12 year,  to edit her valedictory address and to watch her receive the Governor General's Medal.  On occasion of her grade 12 graduation, I gave Morgan a copy of Dr. Seuss' "Oh the Places You'll Go!" that I inscribed for her.  I wish she could have gone to more places but I am honoured that, for a short period of time, I was able to go along with her. The world has lost a winner and so have I.  If nothing else, I am reminded of the fragility of this gift of life.  Working with students like Morgan is a great gift, having a brush with the future and the optimism that comes from knowing it is in good hands.  May you all be fortunate enough to work with a winner like Morgan.