High school was a pitiful time in my education.

I was completely unmotivated, did the least amount of work possible and barely studied.

I always hoped my memory would serve me well on my tests and quizzes, depending on the fact a good night sleep would kickstart the brain.

It never did.

My writing was awful (and still is some days), organization was non-existent and my insecurities were so evident that I could’ve worn a shirt that said, “I am insecure about everything!”

In fact, I blew two perfectly good relationships in high school for that very reason.

I had no business sense, was frightened of confrontation and had no clue about money… just that I should try saving some.

In grade 9, my average was 86%. By grade 12, I was at a whopping 65%.

Yet, through all of it, there were many things I liked about high school. There were memorable teachers, several teachable moments, good friends and many seeds that were planted at the time.

Some of those seeds still need to sprout, but many of them are growing into mature plants.  They’re still being nurtured and cared for every day, getting the proper water and sun to grow and spread.

Young people love and hate their formative years in education for various reasons, but through it all, when good seeds are planted the learning becomes real.

A real education isn’t about pruning the branches of a student to fit a certain look – it’s about planting and watering seeds.

Then waiting for them to grow.