I want to recognize selflessness today.

Recently, I was inspired by a student who chose to give a solo opportunity to someone else instead of taking it himself. The solo was his. He earned it and is a fantastic soloist. Instead, he gave it to another deserving student who wanted the chance. She is also very talented, but a little younger.

Moments like this mean a lot to me as a teacher. Watching a student willingly give up something they have earned so someone else can grow speaks volumes about their character. That kind of selflessness is a life skill that will take him far. It not only helps him grow as an individual, but also makes the people around him better.