The time has come when there is a pale tinge on the tip of leaves, the nights are cooler, and the day skies a deeper warmth of cerulean. Yes, September brings another first day of school.
When doing something for a "first" time, what emotions do you experience? Are you anxious? Nervous? Excited? We usually can remember our "firsts" -- if not the actual situation, at least the feelings that surrounded it. It's important to remember that with a "first" time, it can only be that, there are no do-overs. Be aware of the significance and give it your best shot from the beginning because all firsts are potential hallmarks of how we build the rest of our lives.
This year will be my 50th first day of a new school year. Above is a photo of my first day of kindergarten back in 1965. Also, my first behind the wheel of grandpa's tractor on the farm in Southern Illinois. Even though I can't remember the literal day or time, I do hold dear the feelings that accompanied that initial experience of something new and exciting...would I like it? Regardless, it was a path not yet taken, an undiscovered world.
First (adj, adv) comes from Old English (13c), "fyrst." It means, "foremost going before all others; chief, principal." First infers something of excellence, something that after the initial moments in time, or order, it can no longer be labeled a first which makes it significant either in a positive or negative way.
I can't recall the details of each of my fifty first days of school, however, the emotions are the same, they're familiar and exciting all at the same time. I am filled with anticipation and child-like wonder in the newness of it; it's a freshness that envelopes my step, my words, and my preparations.
We have learned that first impressions can set the stage for how we want to be viewed by others. First time experiences can be stepping stones along a path where opportunities present openings to learn, to gain insight, and to grow into a better person. We should be mindful of the potential of firsts and prepare as much as possible in tackling the challenges which are before us.
President Abraham Lincoln said: "Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe." Invest excellent and hard-working efforts into your first moments.
Pause and ponder your firsts, absorb their importance and significance. Soak in the sincerity of what a difference they can make in the rest of your life. Because the unique thing about a "first" is that they quickly morph into a "last."