In homes all around our school community, parents are asking students, "How was your first day of school? Do you like your teacher?"
In fewer homes scattered throughout the school community and beyond, spouses are asking the teachers, "How was your first day of school? Did you get a good class this year?"
It's good to be back. It's good to quit trying to pretend I can really be ready for a group of strangers and just go for it. Just jump in the water, no matter how shocking the temperature or the current, and start stroking hard and sure for the island in the middle.
Love the comparison to swimming. How appropriate!
ReplyDeleteHere's hoping the answer to the second question was "yes" for everyone in your classroom, including you! Best of luck this year, Mary Lee.
ReplyDeleteMy jump is in about 12 hours. Stretch. Big breath. Focus.
ReplyDeleteMy big jump is a week away. AGH!
ReplyDeleteSuper grateful for you jumpers....
ReplyDeleteGreat imagery, Mary Lee! The water is only shocking for a short time, and soon your body adjusts. We can learn a lesson from kids with this analogy. Kids are much more apt to just jump, without getting used to the water first. Us adults like to dip our toes in first.
ReplyDeleteHere's a great example of what I'm talking about. Now THIIS is a jump. I hope your water is warming up fast!
Sara -- There's no better metaphor in my mind. The water is flowing swiftly and we have to get in and paddle!
ReplyDeleteChris -- The answer to the second question is a RESOUNDING yes! Great class this year!
Amy -- Hope your "jump" went well!
LiteracyTeacher -- Enjoy your last few quiet days!
Liz -- Thanks for your support. Knowing we're appreciated is a lifeline for us when the water gets rough.
Kim -- GREAT picture! Thanks for reminding me that the kids jumped, too, and for that visual of the joy and abandonment that can accompany any of our jumps in life!