Rachel Joy Scott was the first victim of the Columbine school tragedy on April
20, 1999. Her 3-hour long funeral, which was broadcast on CNN, was attended by
thousands of people and watched by millions. Throughout the funeral, person
after person, stood up to express how Rachel had touched their lives. After
Rachel's death, her family found an essay in her journal entitled "My Ethics,
My Codes of Life." Using the ideas that she expressed in her essay, her family
started up a program called "Rachel's Challenge" in which they use Rachel's
story to inspire youth to start a chain reaction of kindness in their world.
In 2004, Dana Scott, Rachel's sister, presented at FJH, and I was inspired by
her story. I decided to share this story with my students and pass on
"Rachel's Challenge"to them. Rachel only lived on this earth for a short 17
years and impacted millions of people's lives. Imagine the impact these kids
could make if they live to be 102!!! The challenge has 5 parts...
1. Look for the best in others. "There is a light inside of everyone. You
just have to look for it." ~Rachel
2. Dare to dream--set goals--keep a journal.
3. Choose positive influences in your life.
4. Show kindness--reach out to those who are being left out, teased, or picked
on.
5. Start a chain reaction with family and friends. Choose 5 people who have
made a difference in your life and either call them, write them a letter, or
tell them in person about how they make this world a better place.
www.rachelschallenge.com