Francis & Me: Duncan Borland, St. Francis de Sales High School, Class of 2022
As I reflect on my years at St. Francis de Sales High School, I see a lot of highs and lows in my time here. However, through it all, I see the wisdom of St. Francis de Sales and his many sayings, especially the admonition to “be who you are and to be that well.”
When I first came to St. Francis, I was nervous about starting a new school. My old school was toxic. I had few friends and especially lacked real role models. At St. Francis, I was challenged in my classes, continued running cross country, and started on the track team as well. I decided to experience new things and joined the school musical.
Soon I started making friends with the other members of the cast, it was a great group. The senior guys always looked out for everyone in the cast and made sure everyone was trying their best. It wasn’t until the end of the school year that I realized how much I looked up to them. I finally had guys to look up to and model myself after.
When the school opened again after Covid, I decided that I would strive to be my best and be that well. By living this way, I would hopefully give the younger guys someone to look up to just as I had in my freshman year. The musical started and I was surprised that my directors wanted me to take on a leadership role. Our choreographer had fallen seriously ill as we approached opening night. I wrote her a letter apologizing for not always trying my best, but she passed away before I could give it to her. I made a promise at that time that I would always try my best in everything I did.
I worked hard to balance my schoolwork, musical practice, and cross-country schedule. I was recognized by my castmates as someone they looked up to and admired. After the final show, two freshmen handed me letters they had written. Both letters included how I was a great example to them and always brightened up their days at rehearsals. I was happy because I knew I had made an impact on people in the cast in the same way those seniors had impacted me a few years earlier.
I have come to see that the teachings of St. Francis de Sales encapsulate my time in high school. I will always carry these lessons with me. I had struggled with role models all my life until becoming a Knight at St. Francis. I found good role models and I strived to be a good role model for others. Through my experience at St. Francis, I was able to embrace who I am. I challenge everyone to not be afraid to take risks. Put yourself out there, do everything with a smile on your face (if you can), and lead by example. Most of all take a look at yourself and visualize how to be who you are and to be that well. Try to be the best person God has made you to be.
