It?s not often students are compared to goldfish and teabags.
Paul Miller tied the seemingly random topics together in a memorable keynote address Wednesday at Iola High School?s National Honor Society induction ceremony for 19 incoming students.
Miller is well known in the halls of IHS, first as a substitute teacher, then as father of graduating senior Jon Miller. The senior Miller is also pastor at First Assembly of God in Iola.
Nineteen students were inducted into the National Honor Society at Iola High School Wednesday. Here, the inductees stand with their fellow sophomore and junior classmates.
I. Goldfish
Miller shared the story of how Jon won a goldfish in a carnival game years earlier, only to have the fish die overnight. The elder Miller agreed to get a replacement, which also died within days.
The third fish?s fate was sealed when the family cat ventured too close, Miller noted.
The episode was an eye-opener. After research, the Millers discovered fish need large tanks, with a complete filtration and aeration system. A heavy lid is also recommended if cats are around.
?I learned when goldfish are confined to inadequate spaces, they?re destined to be stunted and short-lived,? Miller said.
?People, like goldfish, need some new things,? he said. ?We need plenty of air, we need spaces that are not confining, we need fresh water, we need new ideas, we need new people and new challenges, because the interjection of something new refreshes our vitality.?
Iola High School seniors will wear honor cords at their May 11 commencement ceremony to recognize their inclusion to the National Honor Society. They are, from left, Jennifer Tidd, Kassy Shelby, Cole Regehr, Piper Moore, Jonathan Miller, Ashley Crane, Ellie Carson, Derek Bycroft and Emmie Brant.
