to be heard

I'll be on my way to my practicum shortly, but before I'm out the door, I want to post about something that's been on my mind lately.

A lot of us go into teaching because we want to give - to give back in some way. We're the pleasers and do-gooders of the world. However, what I'm slowly realizing is that a truly gifted teacher has instead mastered the art of receiving. Yes, we can offer our students knowledge, help, etc., but more importantly, we can offer them our ears and an open mind - we can hear them. Receiveing another person's ideas, dreams, stories, laughter - well, therein lies true grace. So maybe it's not so much about what we tell our students (what we have to give) as it is about really listening. After all, everyone wants (and needs) to be heard.

Anyway. Just thinking.

project 55

Are you from Beebe School? Participating in Project 55? If so, a very warm welcome!


Stories and photos from Angels and Starfish Educare in Mandela Park Township, South Africa, can be found here. (Just click the link and you'll be taken to the archives.) Enjoy!