Until We See Each Other Again

Saying Good-bye is too final.
These Chinese symbols mean See you again 
and pronounced "joi geen" in Cantonese.

It is hard to believe that this coming November, my mother will turn 91, and it will be 49 years since my father was shot and killed in front of our small store in Memphis. My mother raised three children (ages 7, 8 and 10 upon my father's death) and cared for my paternal grandparents until the end of their lives. My mother has had an impact on four generations - my grandparents, her own, her children's, and her seven grandchildren. This makes me think of how we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us.

Mom has made her home with us for 25 years. My daughter had the benefit of growing up in an extended family, just as I did. Mom has been selfless for 60 years. As a result, I have been able to serve as an educator and leader continuously, and there was always someone home for my daughter.

There is so much more to this story, and it was not until I came to Boston - 28 years into my 33 year career - when the story mattered. For that, I am very grateful.

It is time now for me to have more time for my mother, my daughter, my husband, and for me. Many ask, What are you going to be doing? The answer is I don't know. I will see what opportunities come my way. I know that caring for Mom, staying active and healthy, and reading are on my list. I also know that the week of Labor Day as you welcome back students and staff, I will be with my husband camping in Acadia. We have never been away during this time because I've always been getting ready for school. My family has never had a wife, daughter, or mother who was "present" in August and September. I admit, it is a weird feeling not to be preparing for opening, but on the other hand, I've never been more relaxed.

It's a perfect time to transition with a new district superintendent, much change is ahead and it is best for those who will carry that work forward to be leading. I wish all of you the best. 

Keep the work centered on students and schools!

With all my heart, "joi geen,"

Grace

gwai52@gmail.com