Category: Poetry

Three Pillars of Teaching: Heart, Creativity, and Connection

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This week, I was reminded that sometimes good things come in 3’s, and that connecting with students remains my main joy in life. There are three quotations at the end of each email I send.  They sum up my philosophy of teaching perfectly:  Educating the mind without educating the heart, is no education at all – Aristotle, Creativity is intelligence having fun – often attributed to Einstein but is not confirmed, and Difficult roads lead to beautiful destinations – Zig Ziglar, a motivational speaker.  I realize that these three pillars have been the foundation of how and why I continue to teach.

The Road to our Imagination

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I have worked with many students who have been diagnosed with ADHD, and they respond well to me because I have shared with them that I have a similar kind of mind and that it is a special, wonderful gift. I don't excuse them. They still need to learn to be organized and hand in homework, but I also celebrate their wild wonderings. I encourage them to question and think. No idea is too ridiculous. All are welcome in the broadest sense.

Somehow: Thoughts on Life, Love, & Anne Lamott

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A book in blue with a heart-shaped cloud caught my eye. It was "Somehow: Thoughts of Love" by Anne Lamott.  Anne Lamott.  She is one of my favorite authors – funny and irreverent.  Two of my favorite books are: "Bird by Bird" and "Help, Thanks, Wow!"  I am amazed by the skill with which Anne strings her ideas together.  She talks about real-life tragedies and triumphs with such insight.  Her faith is unquestionable.

Making the Broken, Beautiful

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When I read "Broken" by X. Fang and thought about a memory of something broken, I immediately thought about a glass jar that held cigars tightly packed in concentric circles. This jar was not something that I broke. No. But I can see it vividly even though this memory is close to 60 years old.  I thought the glass container was so beautiful, encircled by a red satin ribbon, holding something my father enjoyed – cigars.  When I saw it in the store, I knew I had to buy it for him for Father’s Day.  I was so pleased with myself and knew he would be proud of me.

Reveling in Winter White: Cloud Dancer

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This morning, the snow called for me to breathe, slow my pace, and put my mind in order. It opened up a space for me to write and wonder, to dream and create.  I definitely have a deficit in those areas.  I don’t think I have attention deficit; I think I have intention deficit.  I get so involved in so many day-to-day comings and goings that I forget what is most important to me.  Thank goodness, nature has a way of reminding me, bringing back, pulling me into its healing sphere.

Taking Wing: Bird Research & Poetry in 2nd Grade

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As the students wrapped up their science studies, I offered to read some of my own bird poems to demonstrate how they could transform their research into creative writing. Becky and I envisioned this as a dynamic way to bridge scientific inquiry with creative writing, transforming our students into "poetic scientists."

Secret Escape: Forest Bathing in October

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Lately, I’ve taken my camera with me to the woods to record the passing of the seasons and to meditate as I walk.  My pace is slow.  I scan my surroundings.  I listen for the wind, the birds and insects. I came across a charm of goldfinches last week.  What a golden treasure they were!  I scout out small hidden places.  I walk in wonder.

Moving into Autumn

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Since the weather has made me sleep in, I finally have time to breathe and relax.  I can have a second cup of tea.  I can leisurely look at my texts and emails.  The cool air makes you yearn for apples, pumpkins, and plum colored sweaters.  It is a good morning to move my summer clothes to storage and get out my wool and plaids.