Hello Beautiful People,
I believe, more than anything, that the best teachers never stop learning. They never feel like they know it all. Their thirst for knowledge can never be quenched.
And, they find teachers in everyone.
Last week, I worked with a new student who was on home instruction.
And just to clarify, I never know why they’re on home instruction. It’s one of two reasons – suspension, or a non contagious medical reason. Other than that, I get no specifics. I’m just expected to show up, and teach!
This new student of mine was an absolute delight. Witty. Bright. Quick. A teacher’s dream.
This new student of mine has cancer.
And on her 18th birthday, she’s going in for a major, MAJOR surgery on her tumor. She’ll be under the knife for something like…three hours.
But that’s not even why I’m writing this.
I’m writing this, because the cancer didn’t even come up. (Not from her, at least. The mom told me.)
See, my student didn’t even talk about it. Could I tell something was up? Sure, radiation leaves somewhat of a trail. But that wasn’t what she wanted to discuss. She wanted to talk about the short stories that were assigned. And the symbolism behind the language and the beauty of the poetic nature of it all. She wanted to talk about college. About her goals. Her aspirations. Her life plans.
Not once did she complain about having a tutor at six o’clock in the evening.
Not once did she complain about the MOUNTAIN of work that was coming from her high school.
She just soaked in all in. And relished in every second. Because honestly, the seconds are precious in her life.
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All too often we complain. And I’m not saying that I don’t – I know I’m guilty of that too. It’s easy to whine. It’s easy to moan. It’s easy to get yourself all twisted over the daily mintuate of your day. But here is a student who reminded me to just…shut up. To appreciate where I’ve been, where I’m going, and what I have. Here is a student who reminded me to soak in those moments of work. Of teaching. Of talking. Of breathing without fear or worry. Of living.
There’s a simple sort of beauty in the routines of our everyday, and it’s easy to forget that.
Live, Love, Learn,
This is a beautifully written post about the meeting of two beautiful beings, both willing to show up and be present. The fear may be there, but the courage and curiosity are stronger. It is a great reminder to all of us. Thanks Megan!