Friday, August 19, 2016

TToT: Unlikely Places



This week the students in town returned to their classrooms.  More than ever this year I arrived that first day filled with anticipation.  I could not wait to see their faces, to wrap them in a hug, and size them up to make sure they fared the break well.  Some I worried about all summer.  Would they run afoul of the legal system?  Would there be enough to eat?  Were they safe?
"My" school kids may never make anyone's America's Brightest and Best list; but that does not diminish the love I feel for them.  They are often dirty.  At times they greet kindness with disdain.  Trust is not something they've learned well in their lives.  They can appear mean and obscene, but within each of them beats a wounded heart.  And Wednesday of this week those hearts beat a little faster.  They were in a safe place where the actions of adults are pretty predictable.  There would be breakfast and lunch to fill their stomaches.  And there would be that gray-haired-crazy-woman who they know loves them beyond reason.



At first glance this may not look like TEN things of thankful, but trust me it is so far beyond ten words can not even say.

17 comments:

  1. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  2. Now that is a HUGE HUGE HUGE amount of thankfulness right there, and I love that you love them so determinedly :D

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    1. I entered this job as a long-term sub. Who knew I would fall so head over heels in love?!

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  3. let me restate that, (which was a comment that spoke to the astounding degree of un-selfishness exhibited by clarks) to be a teacher (a good teacher, the reflection of which qualities shine from your post) takes a confidence in self that is pretty amazing.

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    1. Oh, I saw the first comment come across my phone and found it further clarification in my understanding of Clarks and Rogers! And quite nice at that! Caring about kids who have so little is a perfect remedy to greed and focus on consumption driven activities.

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  4. Teaching is a work of heart. I can tell you see right past the surfaces of your students and peer right into their hearts. And plant things in there. Have a good year, May.

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  5. Our kids return to school tomorrow; my after school program starts up in a few more weeks - due to funding and now we're hiring tutors.
    In any case, it sounds like you are in the exact right job for your big heart! I hope everything has gone smoothly and continues to be a light for you in the months to come.
    Education. It's one of those things that you at once love but sometimes it tears at your heart, doesn't it? I work with ESL students in high poverty situations. It's an interesting ride for sure. HUGS!

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    1. Our jobs likely have a lot of overlap. I do school social work in an ESL middle school. Wow, I had no idea how deeply I would come to love it.
      May you have a productive and positive school year as well.

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  6. What a lovely post! I read a meme or something that said the kids that are the least lovable are the ones who need love the most. You certainly live that. Well done, you!

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    1. I know you too know the reward in touching a child's life. Can't imagine life in another line of work. Just can't.
      Hope the company of your little buddies is comforting your heart.

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  7. You are much more than a teacher; you are a mender of hearts.

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    1. Thank you, Kristi. From your lips to God's ear! There is so much pain in the world. I would be honored to think I might help alleviate even a little of it.

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  8. Those kids are so lucky to have you. It was great to see you yesterday and meet Bill. My teacher friend Diana gave me your new blog sign in--I guess I haven't checked in on you for a while. But I'm on your email list, so you'll be seeing more of me. Have a great school year--and Fall is just around the corner---YEAH!! Donna

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    1. I think Diana's shoulder made the blog! The piece I wrote about Chris has a shot from our table at the reception. I try to protect people's identity. and I think I succeeded with Diana's debut!
      It was great to see you. Such a nice wedding all around. Glad we made it!
      As for school I really think I am the lucky one to get to be part of these kids' worlds. They keep me young.

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Penny for your thoughts.