The Authentic Motivator

It’s 1991, and I was three years old, about to start my very first day of school—what would become a two-year journey through Headstart. My mom was busy making sure I looked cute—she always made sure I looked adorable. But honestly, I was a nervous wreck inside. I was a total mommy’s and daddy’s girl back then—wanted to be around them all the time—and the idea of being in a new place with strangers? Yeah, that scared me.

I remember clinging to my mom like a little koala, feeling that mix of excitement and panic. My social skills? Still in the diaper stage. I was super comfortable only with my family, and strangers? They looked weird and scary. When it was finally time to say goodbye and head into that classroom, I lost it. The tears just kept flowing, and I didn’t want to let go.

Then, something unexpected happened. A young white lady—probably in her twenties—who looked kind and calm, greeted me. I believe she was a teacher’s aide. I don’t remember her name, but I remember her spirit. She didn’t rush me or get annoyed. Instead, she looked at me with patience and warmth, and that small gesture made me feel a little braver. Like, “Yes, I can do this!”

And here’s why I mention her race: I was just three years old, so I had no perspective at the time. But I believe that encounter laid the foundation for a ten-year journey in which I would learn to look beyond race—beyond superficial differences—and truly see people for who they are.

That day marked the start of my love for exploring and connecting with people. I began noticing colors, shapes, sounds—everything felt new and fascinating. Singing the ABCs and coloring became adventures. I loved meeting new friends, sharing crayons, and giggling at silly jokes. We were all just kids navigating this big, exciting world, and in those moments, I felt a deep sense of wonder and belonging.

Looking back, I realize that first day wasn’t just about saying goodbye to my mom or crying in a new classroom. It was about experiencing the human journey—being vulnerable, curious, and eager to connect. It was the first time I truly stepped into the world as a little human, discovering that despite our fears and differences, we all share a fundamental desire to explore, understand, and belong.

That tiny spark of curiosity and connection from my first day has stayed with me ever since. It’s a reminder that at the core of our humanity is that same innate curiosity—our drive to explore, to learn, and to find our place in this big, beautiful world.

Reflective Question:
What small moments or acts of kindness from your own childhood or early experiences have shaped how you see and connect with others today, and how do those moments continue to influence your interactions and understanding of the world?