Mr. Optimistic:

Jameson Earns a Seemingly Unlikely Award

My grandchildren have thrived at the elementary school they attend. They have been successful at learning, developing relationships and making friends. Chatom Elementary School has been good to them and for them, just like it was to me and their father. So when Sierra and Joey were notified that Jameson would receive an award at an upcoming school assembly, no one was surprised.

There were only two options for that particular month: Student of the Month or the monthly Character Trait of the Month Award. Since the “Character Trait of the Month” was Optimism, we all assumed Jameson would be the student of the month. We believed that optimism was not one of Jameson’s gifts.

We were wrong.

When Sierra explained her shock to Jameson’s teacher, Mrs. Redman, she was surprised. She told Sierra that Jameson was the most optimistic student in her class. She indicated that he expresses positive thinking consistently and couldn’t believe Sierra thought otherwise.

Although Mrs. Redman didn’t initially name the recipient in her presentation, the girl seated next to Jameson pointed to him before the winner was revealed. We listened with pride in our hearts and huge lumps in our throats as Mrs. Redman presented the award. When announced, Jameson walked over to his mother for a big hug before walking down the red carpet to claim his prize.

Jameson’s teacher from last year was moved to tears. She knew, more than most, how far he’d come, and we knew she had a significant influence on his growth and development.

Jameson’s award was more than just a recognition—it was a powerful lesson for all of us. It reminded us that people, especially children, are constantly growing, evolving, and surprising us in the best ways. Sometimes, the qualities we assume are missing are actually the ones shining the brightest.

This experience reinforced the importance of looking beyond our expectations and allowing space for growth. Jameson’s optimism may have been unexpected, but it was always there—waiting for the right moment to be seen. We all witnessed something truly special, thanks to teachers who recognized his potential.