From the desk of Michelle Rozell, Upper School Principal:

Several years ago when I was teaching middle school here at Brook Hill, a student brought me a present that to this day, still sits in my office.  I don’t even know if his mom or the young man even knew how much it would mean to me and how often I think about it.  You see, it is only a little black plaque with white lettering that says “Because Nice Matters.” I’m sure this small and very simple idea is not from a rocket scientist or heady theologian, but its message is extremely powerful.

Have you ever had someone walk up and give you a compliment or offer some encouraging words out of the blue?  “You look very nice today,” or “you do such a great job,” or maybe a simple, “way to go” or “I’ve been praying for you lately” are just a few of the things that come to mind and can truly change the course of someone’s day.

Since school started, I’ve had the privilege of visiting with various upper school students and getting to know them better.  This has been such a special time because day after day, I am reminded of how wonderful these kids are.  Whether they are new to Brook Hill or returning students, they all seem to have this one thing in common:  they are nice!  This is a big deal! Constantly, I witness small acts of kindness throughout the day.  I hear the seniors in their lounge encouraging one another about their homework, upcoming games and even getting their college applications completed.  I watch as our kids hold the door open for teachers and classmates; they say thank you, you’re welcome, yes ma’am and no sir; they smile; they are friendly and respectful; they laugh; they congratulate each other; they are kind to one another;  and they are making good memories!  This is all possible because they believe the statement on my little black plaque: “Because Nice Matters.”

The next time you have the opportunity to encourage someone by saying something nice, even if it takes you out of your comfort zone, do it!  God’s love can be easily shown with a few simple words that elevate the soul.  Take it from a principal who witnesses it every day; an encouraging word is way more life-changing than you could imagine…all “Because Nice Matters!”