Robyn is a Royals fan and the counselor at Jamie’s school. I’m grateful there are other Royals fans at Jamie’s school because Stephanie the Principal’s office is covered in all things Cardinals. Stephanie the Principal and I have already agreed to play catch next week when the Royals play the Cardinals. I’m trying to find my Royals tall socks for the occasion.
Last month, Robyn was chosen as the Elementary Counselor of the Year, which I think is incredible.
“You don’t do this work for the congratulations or the kudos, but it really makes you feel good when those you work with acknowledge and support your work.”
There’s only a week of school left. Everyone in the public education system deserves a break and some fun. After all the kids had been picked up, I pulled into the parking lot of my elementary school and met Robyn under the same shade trees where my friends and I ate at the end-of-the-school year picnic.
“So, this is the first time I’ve played catch,” she said.
It surprises me every single time I hear someone say they’ve never played catch. Playing catch is how I grew up.
Every day.
For years.
I still think playing catch needs to be incorporated into our work clock much like the daily siesta of other countries. Better yet, catch and a siesta. Now we’re talking.
I brought two gloves in case Robyn needed to borrow one. I gave her the choice between my 28-year old Wilson with George Brett’s stamped autograph and the brand-new autograph-less Wilson. When given the choice, everyone has borrowed the brand-new Wilson. I can’t say I blame them. It is an awesome glove.
Robyn does an excellent job of helping kids and families who don’t always have the resources to help themselves. She walks alongside them and helps them get to be where they want to be.
“I was inspired by my elementary counselor in Blue Springs who helped me work through several different difficult times. In first grade, my grandma and best friend passed away. In third grade, my best friend lived in a foster home. She was adopted, which was good for her, but she had to move away, which was sad for me. The counselor helped me process multiple emotions and see the good. She made me feel like what I said and what I felt was important. She made me feel important.”
Counselors often carry pieces of the hurt and pain of others with them. Robyn is grateful for the support from other local counselors and friends who help her process her work and remain grounded.
I figured a counselor might have excellent tips on self-care, so I asked where she turns for comfort.
Favorite movie?
“The Preacher’s Wife.”
Music?
“I’m still obsessed with NSYNC; I could listen to them all the time! NSYNC and Whitney Houston — because I can sing like her…in my dreams.”
Comfort food?
“I love wings. Bone-in wing, not boneless, not chicken chunks. Dipped in buttermilk ranch.”
I asked her advice on chasing dreams.
“Go for it. No matter what happens, you’ll find support along the way. No matter what the outcome is, you’ll be one step closer to your goal and you’ll learn things on the journey, too.”
Tip of the hat and congratulations to Robyn, whose work of compassion and kindness is an encouragement to kids of all ages.
