Honoring Veterans and the Power of Self-Awareness
As we celebrate Veterans Day, it’s natural to reflect on the values veterans bring into civilian life—values like courage, discipline, and integrity. But one quality I learned from my own experiences with veterans is self-awareness. My fifth-grade teacher, Mr. Robert Burrow, was a veteran who demonstrated this in a powerful way, igniting my understanding of self-awareness and personal growth.
In our small town, Mr. Burrow was one the only white male teacher, and his presence was unforgettable. Wearing cowboy boots, sporting a mustache that reminded us of the Monopoly man, he carried himself with a confidence rooted in his military background. When he shared pictures from his time in the army, complete with tanks and gear, it was a firsthand glimpse into a life of service and dedication. Mr. Burrow taught us more than academics; he imparted life lessons that are still with me today. He even made sure that we knew our SSN. Makes a lot of sense in retrospect with him being a veteran.
A Humbling Lesson: Self-Awareness Through Criticism
Mr. Burrow left a lasting impression on me when he nominated me for a youth softball event. Despite other students being smarter or more outgoing, he chose me—a decision that spoke volumes about his belief in my potential. But his most impactful lesson came in a surprising form. Our report cards back then not only reflected academic performance but also character traits, rating us on qualities like patience, cooperation, and self-control.
When I received my report card, I was happy with my grades, but I saw a “Needs Improvement” next to “Ability to Accept Criticism.” I was devastated, bursting into tears on the spot. The irony of my reaction wasn’t clear to me until years later; this feedback pointed to a key area for my own self-awareness. Mr. Burrow and my parents reassured me that it was okay to be sensitive, but that this feedback was a chance to learn and grow—a message that sticks with me today.
Rediscovering Self-Awareness and Growth
Years later, I joined Toastmasters, where I encountered criticism again, this time in a different form. Toastmasters members provide constructive feedback on each other’s speeches, intended to help us improve. During my first evaluation, my evaluator offered both praise and suggestions. Though well-meaning, his feedback triggered feelings of defensiveness in me, and my reaction must have shown. He wrapped up by humorously assuring the group that he’d keep the critique brief, “for his own safety,” which made me laugh and eased the tension.
In that moment, I remembered my fifth-grade experience with Mr. Burrow. His honest feedback all those years ago was a valuable call to self-awareness, showing me that being open to criticism is essential for personal growth. Through both Toastmasters and my memories of Mr. Burrow, I learned that criticism can be a gift, illuminating blind spots we might not see on our own. This Veterans Day, as we honor those who have served, we can also celebrate the gift of self-awareness that veterans can inspire in all of us.
Journaling Prompt: Reflect on Self-Awareness and Criticism
On this Veterans Day, consider taking a moment to reflect on your own journey of self-awareness. Have there been times when criticism challenged you, yet ultimately helped you grow? Take time to journal about these moments. Consider questions like: How did you initially react to the feedback? What did you learn about yourself? How can you use this self-awareness to fuel further personal growth?
By embracing both the courage to serve and the courage to grow, we honor veterans like Mr. Burrow and remind ourselves that self-awareness is a lifelong journey worth celebrating.
With Heartfelt Ink, Write-on!
Phyllis G. Williams
🖌️Founder of Thee Art of Me
✍️Creative & Transformative
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