Frankly, the biggest piece of knowledge I would share with anyone and everyone I possibly could, is that YOU MATTER. In today’s world that is a message that is not shared enough. From parents/guardians who are hands-off (or hands-on in the worst way) to an educational system that tends to forget about if not outright shun those who might not be riding the top of the honor roll, this world is too quick to pick favorites. As a child of a single mother from a small town in the Appalachian Mountains, I had a foundation of care, but I knew tons of people who did not. I’m not saying things were perfect, by any means, and I could tell some stories, but there are many who had it worse. Now, as a teacher of largely at risk students, I see those kids who do not have that foundation. When children are raised in an environment where they are treated like an afterthought or a burden they cease to believe they matter. I could write and speak for hours on this, but the toughest person you know is likely that way because they have had to be. I try to approach all of my students from a place of understanding and care, because everyone deserves to know they matter. If you are having a tough day, a tough life, or if you are feeling like you have been shoved aside, please know for sure; YOU MATTER.
There are people out there who genuinely care. I am one of them. You are all always invited to reach out to me in any way you can. For those who feel they have no other options, the end does not have to come. Do not ever think your time should be over. For those feeling the worst extremes, remember to dial 988 on any phone. It is an emergency number. It is free. They care, just like I do. Reach out.
Damean Mathews 