Words of Wisdom Wednesday
The Words of Wisdom Wednesday series is composed of anecdotal segments to inspire and supplement a Scout’s personal development, building core values and moral character. An anecdote on WWW is similar to a “Scoutmaster’s Minute”. These anecdotes are intended to be shared with your units. We will strive to publish updates to Words of Wisdom Wednesday weekly.

A LESSON FROM OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM

An Adaptation of a True Story

One day during my first year in law school, my professor gave us a pop quiz. As a diligent student, I answered the questions with ease, until I read the last one:

“Give the first name of any of the three librarians who re-shelf all the books that students often leave on the desks after each assignment?”

I thought that this could not possibly count toward my grade. I had noticed the librarians whenever I walked into the library. They all were friendly and would ask if I needed help locating a book every time I had an assignment due. I was always very busy and avoided conversations.

Not knowing a single one of their names, I turned in my quiz with the last question unanswered. Right before class ended, a colleague asked the professor whether the last question counts toward our quiz grade.

“No doubt,” the professor remarked. “In your practice, you will meet many people. They are all significant. They deserve your attention and respect, even if all you do is smile and say ‘hello’.”

From then on, I’ve never forgotten that lesson nor their names: Rebecca, Steven, Zarin.

Download a pdf of this article.