"I Act With Respect"

Abigail Messier

"It is important for athletes and students to respect each other because it makes going to school and playing sports so much more fun."

My name is Abigail Messier; I am 17 years old and a senior at Saratoga Springs High School. I am a part of the national honors society and a part of Saratoga Rowing Association girls’ varsity team. I plan on going to a four year university and am interested in entering the law field.

How did you meet Coach Rich Johns?
I met Mr. Johns when I was in the sixth grade at Maple Avenue Middle School, he was my social studies teacher. On the first test of the year I couldn’t figure out the answer to one of the questions and I got so worked up about not knowing the answer that I burst into tears. Mr. Johns had me stay after class and talked to me about why I got so upset. He told me that it’s not about the destination, but the journey and that I shouldn’t be so worried about the grade, but the information I learned. It’s something that has always stuck with me.

How did you hear about Act With Respect Always?
I heard about Act With Respect Always from Mr. Johns when he asked me to be an Ambassador and to wear the Act With Respect t-shirt to school. I still have the red tie-dye t-shirt. I was so excited to be a part of the program.

How has the Act With Respect Alway mission effected you personally?
Act with Respect Always has affected me personally because I think it’s amazing that Mr. Johns message has been spread to so many schools. Respect to me is extremely important and I am proud to say that I was a small piece in spreading this message. Personally it has made me think more about my actions, I try very hard in my day to day activities to always act with respect.

Please share with us how you have, or will in the future “Pay it Forward”
I have paid it forward by volunteering at things like the blood drive, the Saratoga Art Fest, Camp Abilities, and Relay for Life. One way I paid it forward that was extremely rewarding to me was when I tutored kindergartners at Lake Avenue elementary school. It was extremely rewarding to see the progress and the joy in those children’s eyes when they finally figured out the answer to whatever we working on. In the future I plan on paying it forward by doing something in the law field, so I can help others.

How would you describe the Act With Respect Always mission to others?
I would describe the Act With Respect Always mission as a mission to tell students and teams that respect is an important and valuable part of life. It is important for athletes and students to respect each other because it makes going to school and playing sports so much more fun. When I see the Act With Respect signs around town it’s a nice reminder to be respectful.

Would you recommend Rich to speak about Respect to others?
I would totally recommend Mr. Johns to speak to others! His speeches are engaging and memorable. Some of the things that Mr. Johns said to me have stuck with me, other students and athletes need to hear his message.