Stronger

Student teaching is probably one of the most difficult obstacles I have encountered.    It’s a job where   I’m more often critiqued than complimented.  I’m building my creditability, but the students don’t trust or respect me yet.  Moreover, they know their teacher will return.  It’s a challenge to convey to them and many of the teachers in the building how much I care about young people as leaders. If only they knew that  (Student) teaching was so much more than a job for me ---- It’s a dream come true for a young woman with cerebral palsy!

A few weeks ago, I went to borrow markers from the creative writing teacher down the hall.   In light of recent events in our city, students were having a conversation about their fears, vulnerabilities, and the challenges of being accepted.  I was surprised by how comfortable students were to share on this topic.   On the other hand, this teacher constantly listens and invests in the stories of young people.  She firmly believes   that students matter and wants them to know.   For her, it seems to be the only way that creative writing class really works.   For me, investing in the stories of young people is less about teaching and more about valuing those who might not know how special they are.   It says, so much about who this teacher is as a person and why she inspires me so much.  In fact, I was so captivated by the comfort in the room that instead of finishing my lunch I found a seat and stayed to listen.

 A young girl raised her hand to share her story about coping with cerebral palsy and other challenges.   The way the student shared moved my heart. I needed her to know that she wasn’t alone.    She was strong, brave, and able even if most of the world didn’t understand her story.  So, I wrote her a note to let her know just that.

Later that day, her teacher delivered a note that the student had written to me.  The first line of the note read, “ Stronger it’s what we are!” I almost cried.  The young person I hoped to inspire has inspired me!  I read that note each day as a reminder of what I’ve overcome!

Navigating the world with a disability is tough. I teach because I’ve committed myself to living a life of compassion and perseverance.   March is cerebral palsy awareness month.  In celebration of overcoming obstacles, find strength in your story and comfort those who feel they aren’t strong enough to face adversity. We are stronger together!

The  front of the card the student wrote is so BEAUTIFUL I had to share!  She drew that!

This is what I've learned , Everybody is talented , original, and has something important to say." Brenda Leland