What a Quiet Drive Taught Me About Teaching, Life, and Legacy
On a quiet drive home from a celebration of life, I reflected on the quiet strength of Doris Richter—a teacher and servant leader. This episode explores the timeless lessons she lived and how they can inspire our teaching, relationships, and purpose.
Sometimes the most powerful lessons come not from a classroom, a book, or a conference—but from the quiet space of reflection. In this special episode, I share some heartfelt thoughts that surfaced during a peaceful drive home after attending the celebration of life for Doris Richter, my wife's grandmother.
Doris wasn't famous, flashy, or loud—but she lived a life of deep impact. A teacher, volunteer, and unwavering presence for her family and community, Doris modeled what it means to lead with service, consistency, and quiet strength. From decades of volunteering to helping people quit smoking, from epic family reunions to fiercely competitive game nights, she lived with purpose and love.
As I drove along Highway 51, I jotted down some of the things I learned from her —a reminder of what truly matters. In this episode, I explore the lessons Doris taught through the way she lived: the importance of showing up, using your time and resources wisely, staying connected, and letting your actions speak for themselves.
And as a teacher, I couldn't help but see how these values translate into our classrooms. Our energy, habits, and intentionality ripple outward, shaping our students' lives more than we sometimes realize.
This episode is a thank-you letter, a tribute, and a call to reflect. Who are the "Doris" figures in your life? What have they taught you? And how might you carry those lessons forward—in your work, your relationships, your everyday life?
Take a quiet moment. Listen in. And let this be an invitation to live and teach with intention.
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