unacknowledged greatness

I remember a time when I worked for a University in a program that helped to establish young kids in a college routine.  These kids were first time college students.  No one in their families had accomplished getting to college and therefore, it seems liked these students came in with a disadvantage.  Many of them had very little support.  I remember parents who did not understand that books alone can be hundreds of dollars and college loans have to be paid back.  Some students got off the Greyhound bus in front of the Bone student center with nothing but their ambition.  Not a family member in site.  The saddest part was when graduation came.  I saw more family members gather for a prom sendoff, than for a graduation.  I remember a family who missed an important event because a relative was being released from prison.  One such young man was very gifted, but he had so little family support.  He bought his first home alone.  He graduated alone.  Another gifted young man had just earned his second master's degree and none of his family members attended.  My work at Illinois state was truly revelatory.  One thing I told these students is that the lack of acknowledgement of the great things you have done, does not erase that you have done great things.  They were told that the student thought they were better. My reply was that your decisions will lead you to a better life and better is just better.  Don't diminish your accomplishments because you are in a circle or place where they are not appreciated.  In some families, the biggest celebrations are for significantly failed  people.  They don't know how to celebrate a new home, or a graduation, or a job promotion.  Their disability does not make your accomplishments less.  Unacknowledged greatness is still greatness.