NEA Today for NEA-Retired Members, October 2025

The Things I’ve Learned

As I reflect on where NEA-Retired has come from and look to where we are headed, I think of all the profound lessons I’ve learned throughout my professional and personal life. Yep, I’m a slow learner. I didn’t learn everything I needed to know in kindergarten.

However, I’ve learned that good health is a blessing that money cannot buy.

I’ve learned that a pat on the back—though only a few vertebrae removed from a kick in the pants—is much more effective.

I’ve learned that, since we’re going to be thinking anyway, why not think big?

I’ve learned that even if you’re on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there.

I’ve learned that you miss 100 percent of the opportunities you don’t seize.

I’ve learned that as we age, if we don’t keep moving, we rust.

I’ve learned that without hope, the heart would break.

I’ve learned that I should never underestimate my worth by comparing myself with others. It is because we are different that each of us is special.

I’ve learned that without forgiveness, life remains trapped in a never-ending cycle of resentment and retaliation.

I’ve learned that we should work as if we don’t need money, love as if we’ve never been hurt, sing as if no one can hear us, and dance as if no one’s watching.

I’ve learned that we all have two ends, one to sit on and one to think with. Success depends on which one you use. Heads, you win; tails, you lose.

As you start a new association year, what will you learn? Let’s make it a good one as we continue to advance the work of NEA-Retired.