Influential Quotes

The following are quotes from two influential people in Early Childhood: Janet Gonzalez-Mena and Former President Bill Clinton.

The moment I decided to follow instead 

of lead, I discovered the joys of becoming 

part of a small child’s world. 

—Janet Gonzalez-Mena, 

U.S. early childhood educator and author 

We should, all of us, be filled with gratitude and humility for our present progress and prosperity. We should be filled with awe and joy at what lies over the horizon. And we should be filled with absolute determination to make the most of it. President William “Bill” Clinton

I selected Ms. Gonzalez-Mena's quote because it reflects exactly how I feel in my life. You have to put yourself in the "shoes" of the person you are trying to guide. Allow yourself to understand and empathize with them, only then will you be able to lead and guide them to success.

The President Clinton quote was chosen for the same reasons. People have to be able to appreciate where, what, and who you are to understand where, what, and who you want to be. We have to have to goals and dreams and be humble enough to seek assistance, when needed, to get there. 

Both quotes exemplify the understanding and appreciation of others' feelings. This portrays the coming together of the "team" atmosphere, everyone working together for the success of one goal.

Two other influential contributor to the Early Childhood field Louise Derman-Sparks and Raymond Hernanadez understand that internal call and life-long passion for wanting a successful future.

Louise Derman-Sparks  Professor Emeritus Pacific Oaks College, CA

  “ I would play teacher, instead of house...” “ I had that built in passion for to make a a real contribution in the world, to fix all the injustices...”  “ It was a very joyful experience; I felt like everything in me was being called on to teach..., it made me feel whole.”

Raymond Hernandez MS Ed Executive Director School of Early Childhood Education University of Southern California

   “ My passion is intrinsic motivation, every day I go to work I look forward to it because I know the services I provide to children it’s to their benefit, it’s not really to my benefit”