Principally Speaking
Future Focused
Broken Record
One of my least favorite experiences growing up was the dreaded "Pop Quiz." I did not like it when the teacher dropped one of those on our class, but guess what, we are going to have a Pop Quiz here today.
What 1981 album gave us songs like "Juke Box Hero," "Urgent," and "Waiting for a Girl Like You?" I know I am dating myself, but this was one of my first albums as a teenager. I'll give you some time to think about it. Don't read on unless you want the answer. STOP!!! You're going to ruin it for yourself if you keep reading!
Ok, here we go. These songs come from the album "Foreigner 4" by the band Foreigner. If you can tell me why the album was named "Foreigner 4," you get bonus points!
I am not sure my own kids even know what a record is, but if they did, they'd probably use it to refer to me, as I can be a "broken record" at times. Remember when your record would break or get scratched and would get stuck in the same spot, playing the same thing over and over and over? Well, I can be like that as a parent.
Here's what my broken record plays.
First, you must work hard. Did your teacher give you feedback on a way to make something better? Put the hard work in to fix it. Did your boss call you because they are short-handed, and they want you to work another shift on short notice? Ask them what time you should be there. Nothing can take the place of hard work!
Second, you must be a problem-solver. Did your plan for your school project hit a roadblock? Find an alternative way to get it done. Did something you were counting on break on you? Find a way to fix it.
My broken record for my kids repeatedly played the two themes of hard work and problem solving. I don't need you to be the smartest, fastest, most athletic, etc., kids., but what I do want is for you to work hard and be a problem solver. If you do this, you will most likely be successful in life. For our kids, this record played over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over. I think you get the point! 🤣🤣🤣
This month's theme at Cold Spring is problem-solving. If you are anything like me, much of your life, both personal and professional, is about solving problems. So, what better, more practical skill to focus upon with our kids than this. May our kids all learn to be problem-solvers!
Sincerely,
Mr. Finger
