If you’ve opened a newspaper during the last few weeks, the first thing you’ve seen is another article on how terrible the economic condition is at the moment, which unfortunately is true.

The companies that are going belly-up, the continuous but hopeless search for jobs, and the constant problems that our country’s schools are facing each day are harsh realities that have seemed to find a comfortable spot on the back of our consciousness.

In this gloomy and depressing time, it is a rarity to find an uplifting article concerning modern-day America. Well, here’s one for ya’.    

The word “celebrate” usually brings to mind the idea of fun and festivities.

But this word took on greater meaning after my recent conversation with Dr. Ernie Rosado, principal of Gulf Shores High School.

As one of his students, I walk past him in the halls every day, but recently I was given the opportunity to really sit down and talk to him about the financial situation threatening our schools.

First he discussed  some serious problems we’re facing, such as: a new wing without custodial help, combined classes, no journalism or newspaper, no front desk clerk, no computer teacher, larger class size, and longer days for teachers with extra duties.

He assured me that everyone has been willing to do what it takes to make sure students get what they need.

But as we talked, it occurred to me how these tough times may affect our wallets, but how little they have diminished our spirit.

“At the beginning of the school year,” Dr. Rosado began to say, “I met with all of the staff to discuss the upcoming year. I turned to them and said, ‘I’m on a journey with you guys. We can either complain or we can move on and do what we gotta’ do. We must be creative and look at things in a different light whenever possible, to find solutions. But we have a lot to be thankful for.’”

Then what really struck me were his parting words: “At the end of the day, we must celebrate what we have.”

I realized he was saying much more than the average meaning of “celebrate”, but that we must also honor what we have as well.

Where there’s struggle there are always heroic figures that remain dedicated to what they love.

At GSHS we have many heroes. Parents, students, teachers and school staff have stepped up to the plate to save their school.

Many have financial problems and difficulties at home and many are flat-out exhausted. But regardless, when walking around campus you would barely notice a struggling economy.

I see a clean, cheerful and freshly painted campus, life is organized and flows smoothly, the atmosphere is light and friendly, and I sense camaraderie and teamwork.

Dedicating a large chunk of their busy lives, everyone is constantly thinking up new ideas to raise money, support a good learning environment, and provide a supportive place to work and learn. But above all of this soars the most impressive adjustment: the positive, caring attitude shared by administration, staff, teachers, and students, striving to better our school each day, because of the appreciation of what we have.

Despite the struggles that could easily be magnified and mourned over, our teachers keep on teaching to their fullest ability and are there for us when we need them.

When I walk in the front doors of GSHS, I feel safe and at home. I’m still learning each day and receiving a great education while interacting with every one of my teachers on a friendly and personal level.

At GSHS, people care and teachers and students alike are bonded together with the determination to do what’s best for our school. And to me, that’s not only celebrating, but also honoring what we have.

Basch Jernigan is a sophomore at Gulf Shores High School. He welcomes all questions, comments and opinions. He can be reached at basch@gulftel.com.