There were some things I forgot to mention in yesterday's post. One of the things I have noticed is that there are ways to widen our vision of the world. Everyone you meet has a back story and often when you learn that story you can approach that person with a new degree of openness and compassion. I think remembering this can be the hard part.
I always try to remember, everyone is a human being. By extension, human experiences and feelings are not so different across the board. It is often in our perception that seperation and isolation exist. In reality, at one time or another almost everyone has felt "that" way. Everyone has some self-doubt. Everyone has things about them they do not like and everyone has moments of weakness and insecurity. Ultimately, we will all also come to the same end. When our vision adjusts for these truths we are better equipped to face the world and to see others more clearly.
It also helps to remember that everyone has a story. Not only does everyone have a story, but as my huband says, "Almost every family has their hardships to deal with."
I remember that the other day I stopped to talk to the school soccer coach about a player who missed his homework. I commented that the student did a good job but that he played and talked way too much in class. That's when the coach took a moment to give me the kid's story. Apparently the student had just moved from Mexico to live in the U.S. with his dad and sister. The kids are living here without their mom. They get left alone late into the evening every night. The soccer coach pointed out, "At least he has not shaved his head and started wearing dickies like the other kids from his neighborhood because that's where he comes from." What he meant is that the little guy had joined a soccer team and not a gang. That of course melted my heart so I took the kid to my room to give him the make up work. Now, when I see him and his sister I just think about their life outside school and find a well of compassion for them. I really hope that they remain unspoiled by living in this situation.
I guess that we cannot form a real vision of the world without remembering the humanity in everyone.
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5 comments:
Yes, it seems so important to remember that everyone has his or her own story. Things are not always as they appear.
I can tell from your writing that you are an open minded, caring and intuitive person. The children are lucky to have you as a teacher.
This is a wonderful post. Very true and I have to agree with Bubble. You have some lucky kids.
The world needs more teachers like you and my husband. Teachers like you two make a difference in a young person life. Thanks for doing what you do.
Thanks for the encouragement ladies. I do really care and lately this is actually getting me down a bit because I want so badly to make a difference and sometimes it is hard to see the results. I want things to be perfect for the kids but I'm so tired. I have to keep reminding myself why I am here.
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