Dear Miss Zannis,
It's been eighteen years since I graduated from Villa Maria High School. As I began writing this blog, that feeling of being accepted and appreciated for my voice, brought me back to high school. As my former Public Speaking and English teacher, I have to thank you for much of my success. My strong oral and written English skills have played a big role in my career in Marketing and PR. But one of my most memorable experiences was life changing.
After having written what I believed was my best speech ever, you discouraged me from presenting it in a public speaking competition. That was the first time I tasted rejection. Being told I wasn't good enough was tough to absorb as a teen trying to find my voice. Regardless of your opinion, I still entered the contest. I'll never forget the day the decision, of who would represent our school at the provincials, was made. You pulled me out of class to tell me that I had won. That must have been very hard to do. That same day was when I learned that rejection tastes sweet.
You see Miss Zannis, I believe that people come into your life at a certain time, for a reason. Our paths crossed because I needed to learn that no matter what someone thinks of you, it's simply their own personal view. By not handing over my power to you, your opinion of me was none of my business. I let you own your negative thoughts regarding my talent and I refused to buy into it.
Yes my big mouth got me in trouble many times. And I'm not denying that I was cocky with obnoxious tendencies - I was a teen! My voice however, remains my best tool for expression. You contributed tremendously to the skills I'm most proud of. I wholeheartedly thank you for the experiences we shared throughout high school.
Today, I can sincerely say that I'm grateful to have lived through that rejection. In the midst of our greatest challenges, there are blessings. We're all worthy of success but the key is not to allow anyone to convince us otherwise. Thank you again for the memorable challenge.
Sincerely,
Marisa (Class of '94)
