We stood in line at the deli counter. I had my credit card in hand and I was ready to pay for myself and one of my mentors. I was ready for the argument about who was going to pay as well. The last two times we went to dinner, she had won the argument. I felt guilty. She was helping me tremendously as I transitioned to a new professional and all I wanted was to make a dent in paying her back for all the time and energy she invested in me.
When we came to the cashier, she grabbed the bill. I tried to explain how I wanted to repay her for everything she had been doing for me, but she stopped me mid-sentence.
She told me, “Don’t pay me back, pay it forward. You’ll have the opportunity to take plenty of new grads and mentees out for lunch and I know when you get the chance, you’ll do it.”
That stuck with me. I realize I will never be able to pay back all the people that have helped get me to where I am (there are so many), but I want to pay it forward. That sentiment has stayed with me and I kept it in mind as I thought about starting a blog.
At every stage of my life, there has always been family, friends, co-workers, mentors, and teachers that have helped me be better than good enough. This year was no different with my blog. I’m incredibly thankful for everyone that has helped me plan, provided feedback, edited posts, given words of encouragement, and reached out during the process. And, I’m excited to pay it forward.
While small in comparison to all the support I’ve received, I’m so excited to be able to tell you about the first annual BTGE (Better Than Good Enough) Scholarship. It wouldn’t have been possible alone, I’m indebted to all of you…and I’ll make sure to pay it forward :).
I thought this post would be longer because I feel like I have so much to say. But, I honestly don’t know how to put into words how blessed I feel and how thankful I am. I hope all of you know how much this means to me.