Viking Reflections: World language teacher Cristina Nahra

Maya Angelou said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” When I first read these words, I was truly impacted. It was in my early 20s and at the start of my philanthropic journey. I believe that our actions are so powerful because how we treat each other matters. Did we make someone feel loved? Did we show kindness? Did we show respect? 

So, why is it so difficult for us to get along? Why do we judge? Why can’t we accept and embrace our differences? These are the questions I’ve been recently asking myself. 

To give you some background, my parents immigrated to this country. I faced criticism growing up. I grew up in a household that spoke Arabic, English and Spanish. I was made fun of because my PB&J sandwiches were made with pita bread before pita bread was cool. I decided I would not treat others the way I was treated or allow them to feel like outcasts because of differences. One of the greatest gifts we have, in my opinion, are those differences. It opens our world to so many experiences whether it’s savoring exotic foods, learning new dances, enjoying and incorporating different sounds to make amazing music, or so much more.

One of the greatest Mediterranean traditions is making coffee for your visitors. This is such a simple act, but it opens the door for communication, friendship and love. When you break bread or share coffee, you allow yourself to drop your defenses. You don’t have to agree with each other, but you show respect, fairness and, most of all, love. It’s such a simple action that welcomes someone into your heart and home. 

Be welcoming! This is something I strive for. I try to give back, to let people know they matter and to be open to all possibilities. Be kind in your words and deeds. Be open to new experiences and lessons because that’s what teaches us fairness, justice and compassion. The truth is that the “greatest gift is love.” When we love our neighbor, we strengthen our community.

I was asked once by a student why they had to do service hours. I used my experience with volunteering within the greater Cleveland community when I responded. I told the class — because this question generated a lot of support — that I’m a selfish person. The student asked “Why? You are volunteering.” My response was simple. Volunteering makes me feel good. Yes, I’m giving back, but what I get back in return is so much greater. I learn from others, I feed off of their passion, I open my world to new possibilities and I grow as an individual. 

This is why our Ursuline and Marianist traditions are so important in our society today. Faith. Family. Future. Faculty, staff and students make these core values a part of their daily lives, which impacts our local community and trickles out to the world.