Wow, these last chapters were a lot to take in! Just when I thought my personal reaction could not possibly be more profound, the Zander’s prevailed with more stories and more implications of living a life of possibility. Most notably were chapters 10 and 11 when adversity was discussed in more detail, including the analogy of self as a game board (versus the typical interpretation as a participating piece). I will admit, when the idea of mutual responsibility in every situation was introduced, I felt some indignation. I mean, who doesn’t want to ostracize the drunk driver or the blatantly rude reaction or the frequent absentee. But how fascinating to think about their perspective and how it will not improve attitude and happiness by being upset and throwing blame.
As easy as it is to get into a downward negative spiral towards my students, blaming them for their negative, rude, and apathetic actions. But what about what I have done to contribute? What about my negative sarcasm or mediocre effort? Not to mention what they have eaten lately or when the last time is that they got a hug or “good job” from a parent? Trying to remember myself in each other person’s shoes will help me to react with a more enlightened attitude, just as Ben did when his students partied in South America. What would it have helped to “go off” like so many of us teachers are expected to do. Instead, the kids understood, felt enabled, apologetic, regretful, and still valued. Amazing. This Art of Possibility stuff is definitely not second nature in the world of modern education, but I feel like a breath of fresh air, a reminder of options and how to go with the flow, giving students and others in my life the benefit of the doubt, has been given to me…I am inspired and grateful.
Original Artwork, detail of tapestry from "A Perspective on Eastern Design in Threadwork", 2007
Posted by Tricia Atkinson at 10:07 AM
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12 comments:
Rowdy319 said...
Tricia-
Great blog. I loved all the comments as well. Great to hear the story of the "tough" kid in your class.
I found that when I moved into my current school district it was so much hard to get the students to "buy into" the fact that I cared for them not only as my students, but as the people they are. When i ask them about their parents, their families, their life at home and how they are, I always get a weird look like, "why do you care?" The kids are "used" to me now and know that I really do care about their lives. One young lady calls me her dad and just this past Friday I had another kid sign my yearbook, "Thanks for being like a dad to me." Long story short, i understand your plight and frustration with the "bad" kids who you just want to lose your patience with, send them to detention, or whatever, but when you know the back story, the perspective always changes.
Again, great reading your blog. Great job by the way in not giving up on that student. Awesome!
May 29, 2011 7:42 PM
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