Perseverance, Resilience, and Grit
Over the past few months these three words have gained traction in discussions through Twitter, You Tube, TED Talks, Educational Leadership magazine, and other educational forums. Angela Lee Duckworth delivered an excellent TED talk in April , 2013 describing the key to success in the classroom and life which she identifies as grit. As I have read through articles, participated in Twitter chats, and watched a number of videos related to grit, I am constantly reminded of a young man that continues to inspire and touch my heart on a daily basis. Four years ago, a young man by the name of Matt in our school system had a terrible accident with a four-wheeler on his farm in Iowa. Matt suffered a very bad break in his leg, and was required to have surgery to repair the damage. As time passed, Matt experienced many complications with infection and was forced with an unbelievable decision that a person should never have to make, let alone a fourteen-year-old young man. Matt is a footbal