Dear Editor,
History, by definition, is a record of what has happened in the past and normally is beneficial to those who pay attention to it. Those who disregard it can come to regret their decision to do so. The point is, objects that represent accomplishment through dedication, discipline, the principles of teamwork and sacrifice mean a lot to those who earned them. They should also mean something for those who come after as well. They are proof that success is possible for those who are willing to make the effort and sacrifice necessary to set goals and work diligently to achieve them. You might say they are possibly the best examples of the value of commitment and hard work for student-athletes anyone could ask for.
The idea that they have to be current to be relevant doesn’t fit when you consider museums or sports halls of fame. Often times, people are interested in tracking the accomplishments of “those who came before,” as well as more recent ones. Many schools have set aside more space than we have, to honor individual and team achievement. If we need to add more trophy cases and wall space to display the rewards earned by those individuals and teams that have represented Tioga so well in academic and athletic competition, we should.
I am sorry for decisions that led to the removal and discarding of paintings that were given in memory of students and the trophies and other acknowledgments earned in the time period from 1939 to the oldest currently on display. Obviously, this action was hurtful to at least some who were among those affected by this action. In, some cases, it may have been responsible for feelings of shock, anger and betrayal between these, their family members and the school. I can appreciate this and I think most people can.
It’s tough to rise above offenses, perceived or real, intentional or not. Those who can do so have a big advantage over the rest of us, no doubt. However, holding on to hurt can bring on bitterness and stress and can actually shorten our lives. Who wants that? There is always the chance no malice was intended. Of course more thought could have been given to the decision, but who has not said, “given a second chance I would have done that differently.”
I believe one of the most important things we can do, in life, is develop meaningful relationships with others and as many of them as possible. I don’t know if we can have too many friends. Being able to forgive those who have hurt us will make it easier for this to happen. Forgiving and being forgiven are wonderful experiences. They set us free to be better people. Not perfect, just better.
Building good relationships with others can significantly reduce the chance of doing things that cause problems between people. You can talk to your friends and, when you really communicate, it’s more than just talking. It’s hearing and being heard, understanding and being understood. When this happens, the chances of decisions being made that turn out to be highly controversial to some and hurtful to others are much less, and the atmosphere, as well as attitudes, change for the better.
We do an excellent job of educating our kids on a bare bones budget. When, and if, we all understand this and get on the same page working together, who knows what could be accomplished?
Sincerely,
Doug Graves
Tioga Center, N.Y.
