Tribute to Brittany Boatright
“Dream no small dreams for they have no power to move the hearts of mankind.”
Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
I love that quote, and when I first met Brittany Boatright last April, I soon knew that she was living her life in a very powerful way…and the dreams she held for her future were grander than most people ever dare to think about, much less commit to achieve.
As a team of us gathered ‘round a table to interview Brittany for admission to Aviation High School, it wasn’t long before we, too, were wrapped up in this young woman’s dreams and goals. When we asked her to tell us about her strongest traits or skills, she quickly replied that she was a good listener and a good friend to others…and creative, artistic, and curious about the world around her. She also whispered the word “smart” when asked how others might describe her. And then she told of us of her dreams and goals: learning to fly and perhaps becoming a commercial airline pilot—a career she had been preparing for since 7th grade when she decided to be Amelia Earhart for Night of the Notables. Brittany told us that when she researched the life of Amelia she, too, knew that she was destined to make a difference in the world.
She spoke about her fascination with our nation’s space program and how she might someday like to be part of a team building a new spacecraft or exploring other planets. And she even shared that she planned to write and publish a book…and we weren’t sure if that would come before going to college or after…but she was clear that a life of learning and exploring was to be her future.
It’s been said that dreams are the touchstones of one’s character. Brittany, your character was impeccable…and if you’re listening right now as I think you surely must be, I want you to know that we’re proud of you for dreaming BIG…and I also want you to know that you are moving the hearts of all of us at Aviation High School. In the short time you were with us, you taught us to live with integrity and dignity. We will keep your dreams, your spirit, and your memory alive, and we’ll even write a chapter of your book which shall describe your joy in receiving your high school diploma in 2009.
It is no surprise, Brittany, that you are surrounded by books today. No doubt, many of your dreams were inspired by the books you read and the characters you came to love. An author once said that his wings were a thousand books. May those who receive these books know that they, too, have been given the gift of glorious and powerful wings that, when spread wide, will allow them to explore the world and make a difference, just as you have done. Your legacy may well be to “dream no small dreams…for indeed, they have no power to move the hearts of mankind.”
Brittany, I too believe in the power of dreams. Years ago, my sister presented me with a dreamcatcher, and since then it has most always adorned a stack of books on my coffee table where it catches the morning light. Over the years it has caught many magnificent dreams, one of which was you. Today, I would like to present your family with this dreamcatcher in hopes that all of your dreams will continue to be captured by those who love you so very much. Sweet dreams, Brittany. We love you.