I wrote this at the end of yesterday’s blog entry but realized that it needed to have its own entry considering (in my opinion) its importance.
I ran into many people within the past few days who read the Saipan Tribune’s article [June 28th], “PSS’ Steve Nguyen bids Saipan goodbye.” It was a great article in that it included almost everything I said. Almost. So I would like to share what was omitted from the story with you all today. The blue italicized portions (below) were not included in the final version of the article and I wanted to highlight those things here because they are important:
What else does PSS need to do to continue what you’ve started with them?
One thing that I see and continue to see (not just for PSS but also in the community) is a dependence on “off-island experts.” While there are legitimate reasons to bring people here to train, no amount of training can replace work ethics. We have the skills, the talent, and the know-how, now is the time to put these things into practice.
I have been blessed to have trained and presented workshops to over 800 teachers, but all of that will be useless if no one applies the skills and knowledge in these workshops. There are a handful of dedicated and passionate professionals. My dream for PSS is to use these individuals to inform and inspire others to build local-capacity here in the CNMI.
They say that character is what you do when no one is watching. My hope and wish for PSS and the government agencies here is to adopt honor and character as virtues in your life and in your workplace. We are each “experts” in some areas and if we respect one another, hold ourselves accountable, and work together imagine what we can accomplish. Let’s Be Doers!
Any other messages you want to extend?
Practice the five virtues in your job and in your life: (1)competence, (2)caring/sensitivity, (3)flexibility, (4)passion, and (5)vision.
Remember that Saipan, Rota, and Tinian are places that you call home. What you do now will greatly impact the Saipan, Rota, and Tinian of the future. What will your children see in their future? In their homes? In you? What will the CNMI be like for your grandchildren?
Finally, I want to leave with these word from my favorite quote…
A vision without a task is but a dream, a task without a vision is drudgery; a vision and a task is the hope of the world. -Unknown
July 6th, 2007 at 4:35 pm
Hey Steve! So sad to know that PSS is losing a very dedicated Behaviorist. I learned a lot about behavior management from you back when I was still in San Vicente dealing with some behaviorally challenged kids. I’m sure the next batches of SPED Teachers are going to feel unfortunate for not having you around. Hey you get a “sad face” for not sticking around, oh wait, I get 2 “sad faces” for leaving Julie and not finishing the school year, oh well. You do get to have a reward for affecting the people’s lives in Saipan in a very good way, especially the children that were changed through your behavior plans.
July 7th, 2007 at 12:57 am
Maren: Thank you so much. Despite getting the “sad faces” I’m “happy” because professionals like you viewed me as having a positive impact on people’s lives, especially the school children. It means so much to me to hear those great and encouraging praises.