The Quiet Bloom

 

I was once a class monitor for two weeks —

not long,

but long enough to learn that watching over others

is also watching over yourself.

In Chinese class, I helped the teacher,

speaking softly,

hoping my quiet hands could carry meaning

even when my voice was unsure.

I stood once as an environmental ambassador,

hoping to plant change —

but not all seeds take root in the soil we’re given.

And that’s okay.

Some lessons grow later.

I tried to join the student council.

I became a Sergeant-at-Arms in Toastmasters.

Each attempt was a door —

sometimes gently closed,

sometimes opening into places I didn't expect.

Right now, I am not leading.

I am learning.

But that does not make me small.

Because leadership is not a badge.

It is found in:

– asking for help

– pausing before you rush

– checking in with those who guide you

– learning to work with those who think differently

– and still showing up with hope.

I rush sometimes.

I forget to break things down.

But I am trying again.

And maybe…

that’s what leading really is.

The quiet bloom of someone who keeps growing

even when no one is watching.