Lessons from Kindergarten: Having the Courage to Shine
By: Jessica Faith Graham
Published August 20, 2025
There’s something about this time of year that always feels like a fresh beginning. As summer winds down and the school year approaches, I’m reminded that every new season invites us to grow, to show up with courage, and to share our light with others. This theme of light is one I keep coming back to, especially as my kids reach new milestones and step into new adventures.
August arrived, and the start of the school year is almost here. I love the change that August seems to usher in: the sun sets earlier, we get a few cooler days, and yellow leaves start to appear here and there.
With the change of the calendar, I’ve noticed that my kids seem excited to go back to school. They miss their friends, and I definitely miss the school routine. This year, we have two significant milestones: my youngest is starting kindergarten, and my oldest is moving on to middle school. As for my middle child, she has decided to focus more on her sense of style, so shopping for school has taken on a whole new twist.
My son shared that he is “a little nervous and a lot excited” for kindergarten. His big sisters seem to take great joy in sharing everything he needs to know about kindergarten. A few of their suggestions are:
“You can’t blurt out everything that comes to your mind.”
“You will need to eat quickly.”
“Don’t get annoyed if the teacher doesn’t call on you.”
Their tips made me smile, but they also reminded me of another piece of wisdom we once received during a milestone just like this. Back in 2019, my oldest was about to start kindergarten. Her preschool teacher sent her a letter wishing her a great first day of school. This is what the letter said:
God fills the night with points of light,
And asks you to be a Star so bright.
Work hard in learning,
Let love show,
Be kind to all you meet and know.
Have strength and courage along the way,
Be the Star that lights each day.
At the time, these words felt like a sweet encouragement for a kindergartener, but over the years I’ve realized they carry wisdom for every stage of life. I’ve kept it all these years because I believe that whether entering kindergarten, college, or retirement, these are meaningful words to live by.
We can all be the Star that lights each day. Sharing our light with others can truly make the world a brighter place.
Wishing you a beautiful end of summer.
I’d love to hear your thoughts!
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