SO... I think its time to admit that I really need this Thanksgiving break coming up. The last few days I have had a lot of stamina as usual, but not so much tolerance. Today for a good few minutes I felt like quitting teaching. I've never felt that way before. I was just kind of flabbergasted by the complete disregard for my care and effort and other students desire and right to learn. I didn't yell or scream at them, but I gave them the "you are breaking my heart and my spirit" speech, which would've included tears if I was that type. I might get watery eyed a little when I am moved by something, but just not a cryer. And I wasn't angry, I was genuinely heart broken and utterly confused with what I should do. SO I decided to be honest. As I was finishing my emotional speech, a co-worker came in to deliver homemade vegan pozole to me. Perfect timing. I needed some nurturing at that moment.
Getting my feelings out allowed me to think clearly and I modified the lesson without dumbing it down or giving up completely. Students kept on task and produced some creative political cartoons with clear viewpoints on U.S. Imperialism. That's more like it.
A-ha:
I am manipulatable.
Reminder:
DO NOT WORK OVER BREAK!
Chrissy,
ReplyDeleteMy first year teaching, someone told me that if I can make it to Thanksgiving, I'm good for the whole year. It's just another series of long stretches that you can get through.
I will go with that thinking!
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