Razor the Resolute: Dyslexia Mascot

In the story of the emperor’s new clothes, a large group of people (including the emperor himself) felt a certain way but were not emboldened enough to speak up until a little boy stated the obvious. After just one person spoke up, the others in the group knew they were not alone in their thinking and they began to voice their thoughts, as well. It was empowering to know that they were not alone in their thinking.

I still get nervous and shaky when I’m preparing to talk about dyslexia or reading instruction with someone who is likely to look me in the eye and tell me I’m wrong. My palms get sweaty and my heart is pounding. But then I think of the countless people I’ve met with intriguing or heart-breaking stories about dyslexia. I think of the other educators and professionals from whom I’ve learned. This helps me feel encouraged and empowered.

There are many people who “just don’t get it” when it comes to dyslexia. Razor was created as a symbol and reminder of the many people in every state who DO get it and are working hard, just like you. Razor represents the many people with dyslexia and the students, teachers, family, friends, and professionals who work to understand dyslexia and the challenges and strengths that accompany it.

So when you are discouraged (not filled with courage), just know that there are so many others who are going through similar experiences. Razor would like to cheer you on and remind you to “hang in there” even though it’s difficult at times. That is exactly what being resolute means:

RESOLUTE (rez-o-loot):   Firmly resolved or determined; set in purpose. 

adamant, bold, courageous, decided, dogged, faithful, firm, intrepid, meaning-business, persevering, persistent, purposeful, relentless, staunch, steadfast, strong, stubborn, tenacious, true, undaunted, active

Being resolute feels like:

• A quiet, but growing confidence that you are on the right path.
• Releasing a secret weapon with the satisfaction of knowing you will win the game.
• Seeing the underdog take the lead (standing tall, heart swelling with pride).
• When you ARE the underdog and you take the lead (chest out, chin up, shoulders back).
• Wiping the tears and setting your jaw, with a resolve to get back in the fight.
• When others tell you what you cannot do and you are determined to prove them wrong.
• Getting back up to try again.
• One-eyebrow-up, arms-crossed, legs in a power stance, with a look of determination.
• The rolling up of sleeves to get the job done
• Knowing that a task at hand is difficult and yet doing it anyway.
• A tiny satisfied smirk after accomplishing a hard task.

I feel very proud of this dyslexia circle and the people in it. My heart swells with thankfulness that I get to be a part of it.

What you are doing is challenging.

I would like to join Razor in cheering you on.

You are amazing and I admire you!

Two of Razor’s favorite words:   Embolden – to make bold          Encourage – to give courage

RESOLUTE goals: To embolden and encourage others by recognizing and celebrating successes and by showing that we have an awesome and large dyslexia family across the world. To help embolden or encourage others in our dyslexia family across the world and for more info about RAZOR (mascot of all things dyslexia) click on the button below.