Tuesday 3/23

I haven't reflected here in a bit. I am also keeping a journal so sometimes I forget about this space. I am sitting here worrying about you guys. I overindulged in the news yesterday and was feeling overwhelmed by the scope of this virus and its effects on our health and economy. I felt like the assignment for today should be lighter. Many of you indicated that you are feeling like you have too much work. This "learning at home" stuff is weird for your teachers too. School isn't designed to be packaged and sent home. You know how often  I say, learning is social. It really is. Our lessons don't translate that well to paper and sometimes we underestimate how long it takes for work to be done. Sometimes we overestimate how clear our directions are. It's tricky. I feel like you underestimate your importance to us. I chose teaching because of you. I get bogged down sometimes with day to day nonsense and occasionally feel defeated but then one of you comes through my door and shows me why I am here. You make me laugh, you smile, you make mistakes and jump right back up, you tolerate my mistakes, you accept and reject my advice but you let me give it. You, all of you, with your goofiness, earnestness and generosity bring me joy. That is why I teach and that is why I worry about you now. Don't overindulge in the news, let us know if you are frustrated with the work, and find joy. Celebrate something by writing about it.