The Power of One...Your Impact Matters

I learned early...as a mother and teacher...that each of us holds the incredible power to inspire, empower, and uplift others, but equally, the potential to diminish or hurt without realizing it.

One afternoon, a former student who frequently made lunchtime visits to my classroom after moving up several grades bravely shared with me how something I'd said harshly to her in class, "That's not the way to do this," had stayed with her. She thought I was angry or didn't like her because of it. My heart sank...I didn’t remember the incident. But I knew myself, and it was hard to imagine using that tone even if I was tired and frustrated after a long day. However, I am human…and I know it could have happened. 

Realizing how deeply a single careless remark had affected someone I cared about made my heart physically ache...it reminded me that my influence, even unintended, carries real consequences.

Instead of being defensive, I thanked her for sharing and sincerely apologized, explaining that my tiredness was no excuse. She immediately forgave me and offered a hug. This taught me a powerful lesson: we must own our mistakes even if we’re not sure about them and mend the unintended hurts we helped create… especially if we’re the adult or the leader.

With my own children, similar moments arose frequently throughout their lives. They've told me how the tough lessons...like strict curfews, insistence on responsibility, or pushing them to persevere through challenges...shaped their lives positively. Yet, they've also shared times I unknowingly hurt them with my words or decisions. Those conversations can be painful.

Hearing their perspective wasn't easy...I wanted to justify my actions, to explain my reasons (and occasionally, I have). But most of the time I chose instead to listen deeply, to acknowledge their pain, and offer genuine apologies. 

Admitting to my children that I had fallen short of being the parent I desperately wanted to be wasn't just hard...it felt raw and vulnerable, like exposing my deepest fears. It still isn’t easy for me. 

Yet, as painful as these conversations can be, each one brings a profound sense of relief and closeness...a tangible healing that proves authenticity is always worth the risk. Each time, this deepens our connection and teaches us both about humility, vulnerability, and growth.

I say it isn’t easy…sometimes, it’s downright hard! After all, I’m still working with my own ego, the one who needed to be a “great” parent at all times, because I sometimes didn’t get it myself as a child. 

The idea that I didn’t measure up to my own expectations or those of my kids is hard for me to accept…but it’s true, and if I wish to heal that part of them…of us, I choose to continue the hard work, look at myself honestly, and accept that I’m not perfect. It’s a process...a powerful, messy, and ultimately rewarding process.

As an educator leading a two-year cohort for teachers, I watched firsthand as intentional guidance and authentic encouragement inspired confidence and leadership in these remarkable individuals. Over time, each cohort member reached out to share how our work together profoundly impacted their teaching and personal lives, sparking a ripple of empowerment in their own classrooms and beyond. 

Witnessing how these dedicated educators carried forward the values and confidence we built together, transforming their own classrooms, reaffirmed my belief that intentional actions have exponential power. These affirmations energized me, reinforcing my belief in the power of showing up authentically and intentionally in every interaction.

Today, through WILDD Hearts, people reach out often through emails or private messages to share how something I've said or written resonated deeply with them...planting seeds of empowerment, courage, or hope. Each message is like fuel to my soul, confirming that by simply sharing my authentic self...the messy, beautiful, imperfect human...I am encouraging others to bravely embrace their own truths.

Here’s what I deeply believe:

Love is all there is.

Be kind whenever possible.

Uncovering your purest essence is our highest purpose.

Looking someone in the eyes and speaking your truth is liberating.

And I place deep trust in something I affectionately call GUS...God, Universe, Spirit...a force guiding and grounding my journey.

Our authentic selves hold immense power. Every day, in countless small interactions...a smile, a sincere compliment, an empathetic ear, or even a heartfelt apology...we profoundly impact those around us. 

We inspire or diminish, empower or hurt. These small acts not only strengthen our relationships, but they also quietly build our confidence, preparing us for moments when courageous decisions or decisive actions are required. 

When we practice authenticity daily, we're grounded deeply in our truest selves, able to speak openly and act boldly when it matters most.

Never underestimate your power. Your authentic presence could be the light someone else desperately needs today. Keep showing up with your whole heart...it truly matters.

Diana