I've been subbing in a high school English classroom for three days. Today is my last one, for a while. I'll be back the beginning of June for another 4 day gig, an easy gig, just time consuming, but not stressful. Being juniors and seniors, they know to look on subs as people to see, perhaps listen to for the five minutes it takes to do attendance and directions, and then go their merry way. They'll either work or not. Good by me. I'm a believer in letting high schoolers make their way.
I've been working for this teacher since I began twelve years ago. He was first at one middle school, then the other, and finally here at the high school. His rapport with the students has always been excellent, his directions clear and his tips helpful. When I am subbing in the back of the room, for his push-in teacher, I walk away wanting to be a student in his class. The assignments pique, with multiple options I'd be happy doing, wanting to do them all.
 |
| Art by Danae Pancini |
The assignments for these days? First there was one highlighting a song from an album of their choice. That was due Friday. From the few handed in on paper (many done on the computer. He is good about giving choices that way, too), I asked and was granted permission to use the one here.
This week's assignment will be a series of short writings on a booklet of essays from The Book of Delights. Today's is to write on something you find delightful. Mine? Asking to use and then connecting to the student who made the poster. I shared my blog and explained why I wanted to use hers and she shared, once she knew I liked historical fiction, the book she is reading. I have added it to my list.
I try daily, and usually find, delights daily. In nature, in my cats, in friends and family, in the books that I read and the articles that push me to think, I work to find the good. Sometimes, yes, like the last couple of days, I struggle. I ruminate on not the good but the stresses and strains of life. I have come to know myself well enough, though, that if I sit and think, I will come out of my funk, realigning and centering myself once again.
Nothing has changed... but my focus, returning to the positive.
Life Is Good
