By Rusty Potter
As students return to school, there’s one lesson I believe they need to carry into this new school year. It didn’t come from a textbook or a classroom, but from my mother, Mrs. Caroline Potter.
When I was a teenager, my mother would send us to the store with simple instructions: buy light bulbs – they had to be 100 watts. If we brought home anything less – a 60-watt or 75-watt bulb – we would turn around and head back to Smith’s Super Sack to exchange it. No excuses. No negotiations.
At the time, it felt frustrating. But now, I see it clearly: my mother wasn’t just talking about bulbs – she was teaching us a standard for life.
She was saying, “Shine as bright as you can. Don’t come halfway. Don’t settle for almost.” She was instilling in us the value of showing up at 100% – in school, in work, in how we treat others, and in how we see ourselves. We should have a reputation for giving 100%.
This school year, I want to pass that lesson on to every student walking into a classroom: Shine in every classroom.
That doesn’t mean you’ll get everything right the first time. It doesn’t mean you’ll never struggle or feel unsure. But it does mean this:
Show up and do your best. Stay focused. Stay curious. Ask questions. Try again. And don’t let the fear of failure dim your light.
Because the world doesn’t need dimmed-down, halfway-present students – it needs young people who are willing to grow with effort, character, and courage. Let your brilliance shine bright this school year – walk in confidence, lead with kindness, and never dim your light to fit into a crowd.
For parents and teachers, this message is for you too: Set the expectation high. Be consistent. Believe in their abilities – even when they doubt it. Children often rise to the standard we set.
The world needs young people who know how to shine bright. Not just academically, but in character, effort, and resilience. The 100-watt mindset isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up every day determined to give your all, even when it’s hard.
As this school year begins, may Mrs. Caroline Potter’s lesson live on. Teach your children – and remind yourself – that excellence is a decision. Partial effort is a missed opportunity. We must be known for excellent work.
You are not made to flicker.
You are not made to fade.
You are made to shine – consistently, boldly, and fully – just like a 100-watt bulb.
