Inspired Reflection

In an instant

-worlds turn upside down

-priorities change

-some things become more important

-some things no longer matter at all

-vision sharpens

-clouds part

-truth is revealed

Love.

Love is what matters. All else falls away.

In the past few weeks, many things have changed in the lives of some of my relatives and friends. Some received life changing medical diagnoses while others decided to close long-running chapters in their lives and begin new stories. The pebbles that dropped into their lives are creating ripples that touch all of the lives close to them. 

Like a river, realities change course. It may be by force or by choice. It can be bittersweet or completely heart wrenching. Change inspires an examination of life: priorities, goals, what has been, and what can be. It is a reflective experience.

I send much love and good thoughts to all of the relatives and friends going through life changes right now. Your strength and courage inspire those around you and give all of us a reason to pause and put things in order in our own lives. You are strong, you are brave, you are loved. 

Until next time,

Tracy

Students as Teachers

Artful risktakers, joyful creators, confident collaborators...These are all words that describe the students I teach.

When I feel inspiration waning, I step back and watch my students tackle their own projects. They impress me with their ability to let go of the worries and concerns that often plague me. 

They simply create and enjoy the process. 

The act of creating empowers them and grows their confidence.  

My fifth graders are currently designing ceiling tiles as part of a legacy project for the school. They know that these tiles will be on display for everyone to see. 

If I were creating a design for a tile, I would feel incredibly anxious. I would worry over every little detail and try to make sure it is all perfect. I would think about how others would judge it. By the time it was all finished, I would be absolutely exhausted and glad it was over. 

Not my awesome students. They create their designs with confidence. After all, they know everyone will love it.

They proudly show me their drafts and go to work transferring their designs to the tiles. Then they choose their paints and brushes and set to work creating.  

The energy in my classroom is exhilarating. With awe, I watch them work their magic.

Their projects are not finished. Each day they add a little more detail to them, and each day I am amazed and inspired by their creativity and the way they freely share it.

On days like these, I think that I am the student and they are the teachers. How lucky am I to have such great teachers?

May all adults be inspired to create with the freedom and joy of children.

Until next time,

Tracy