Making the World or (Your Workplace) Better

In Responsive Classroom, we have guiding principles which are the foundation to an approach and philosophy for teaching and learning. I’ve recently reflected on one principle in particular– How we work together as adults to create a safe, joyful, and inclusive school environment is as important as our own individual contributions or competence. When I think about this one, I am reminded of how important it is for us to support one another, share our ideas and tips, have respectful interactions, and take a genuine interest in the lives of our colleagues. If you are a teacher (in any capacity) you already have an understanding of the challenges we encounter in this very difficult but most rewarding profession.

We all live very busy lives. We juggle so many things and at times life can become overwhelming. Everyone experiences periods when their plate is so full they absolutely cannot take on one more thing. Think about your coworkers. Maybe someone you work with is struggling, anxious, exhausted? Is there something you can do to help ease a burden?

Recently I had an experience with a friend who was going through a really tough time. I had spent the day with him and his family. He acted like his usual self. You see, he never let on that there was anything wrong. It wasn’t until later that I found out that he was going through a rough patch. The moment I realized his burden and how he handled his adversity caused me to think deeply. We connect with so many people during our busy days. We just don’t know what a family member, best friend, colleague, administrator, cafeteria worker, custodian, parent, etc. are going through or dealing with. There are so many things that can weigh heavy on a heart—an argument with a spouse or child, financial worries, health issues, problems with family members, and lots of other demands or issues that we bring with us to school/work each day. So the question is—what can we do to make someone else’s world a little better? How do we treat our colleagues? How do we show respect to everyone that we encounter? How do we support one another?

As I think back to that important guiding principle from Responsive Classroom–How we work together as adults is as important as our own individual competence, I think it is a necessary part of our calling as teachers—to be available to lift others up especially in those times when they really need it the most.  Why don’t you take a moment to reflect on your family, friends, and colleagues? What would you do to make sure everyone you encountered knew that you were someone they could trust to care and support them, no matter the struggles they were dealing with?
ELLEN says, “BE KIND TO ONE ANOTHER.” Maybe it’s just that simple!