Naughty, naughty...

I haven't been here in a while. Not that I haven't wanted to be, but I couldn't muster the strength to blog, cook and write. Since I was reading another Lynsay Sands book on top of my regular stuff, something had to give. Ideally, I'd have something pithy and imaginative to say--especially after a four day hiatus, but alas, I have nothing. Like a number of Americans, I'll spend the coming days eating turkey leftovers. Admittedly, my preference leans to the pies. They are a naughty indulgence I enjoy only a few times a year. Regardless of how I try to moderate the pie eating, the buttery crust seems bent on attaching itself to my thighs. What kind of craziness is that? Maybe I'll eat it standing up next time so the calories won't count.

The good news is the writing has been going well. I set a little goal for myself--really wanting to reach it, but at the same time, not trusting myself to do so. Not only did I meet my goal, but I surpassed it. That reminds me of a conversation I had with a student this week. I gave the class my list of expectations--in my mind, something small and attainable--respect for the classmates and that each person would do their best. One of the kids piped up and said I was going to be disappointed because my ambition was too high. I told him I would not be disappointed because I knew each of them had the power to rise to the challenge. I wasn't disappointed.

When I accepted the job, the clerk advised me that I'd be working with special needs students. My approach may be a bit Pollyanna, but I figured they were kids like all the others I'd encounter. At the school, when other faculty learned whose class I was subbing for, their eyes grew wide and they didn't bother to hide the pity that shrouded their faces. I was too dazed to think anything of their responses 'til I'd gotten more sleep. Of all the students I've subbed with recently, those were the best behaved and possessed the best attitudes. You go into a classroom to teach, but if your heart and head are in the right place, YOU will be the one to learn. That adage--people will rise or fall to meet your expectations is so true, and I can't think of a more poignant way to have experienced it.

To all who find themselves passing through the random mumblings sponsored by the scattered fragments of my mind, happy holidays. May you find joy peace and happiness as you embrace the coming new year.