By Stephanie Weese, CFO, MSBO Board President, Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services, Livingston ESA
Earlier this month, I received a letter in the mail. Yes… a letter! Inside was a handwritten note and an article torn from a magazine. Both referenced my column from the March issue of MSBO eNews & Views.
It was a short note, but the kind words—and the simple fact that someone took the time to first read my column, then tear out an article that reminded them of me, and finally write a handwritten message—really struck me. They even found an envelope and a stamp! I could go on and on, but the point is: it made me pause. Then it made me smile. Not gonna lie—it totally made my day.
Throughout the year, I’ve also received emails from members and colleagues who felt compelled to reach out after reading one of my columns. Each email brought a smile. Some were from longtime friends, others from members I had just recently met. That letter I mentioned earlier? It came from someone I’ve known since my days as a student at MSU. (Go Green!)
After receiving the letter, I started thinking about how many times I could have written a note to express appreciation, or how often I could have said out loud the grateful words I was thinking. So many missed opportunities! If you take a moment, how many opportunities have you missed along the way?
One of the biggest takeaways from this MSBO President experience is this: the little moments matter. A few kind words in conversation, a short email, a handwritten note—these are not small things. They are meaningful, and they’re absolutely worthy of our time. If I can make someone feel the way I did when I received that note, I’d consider that a win.
As we gather for the MSBO Annual Conference next week, let’s take the time to lift each other up. Seek out the person who helped you and thank them face to face. Welcome a new member and ask how they’re holding up. Have a real conversation with a colleague—and just listen. And don’t forget to laugh. With all the stress we carry day to day, we could all use a little comic relief.
I look forward to seeing you all next week!
Other Articles in this Newsletter
- 2025 Board Election Results
- Believe it or Not! It’s Audit Season
- Financial Statement Preparation Workshop
- Get Working Knowledge of School Finance
- MSBO Update – Robert Dwan
- Time Flies By When Having Fun: A Fond Farewell and Looking Ahead – Mary Beth Rogers
- Welcome New Members
- What Should You Know About Arbitrage Rebate?