Friends,
I haven’t posted to the blog in some time. It’s a gloomy day during the last few days of Christmas break. The perfect time to write. As we head into the new year here’s a reflection.
At the end of October, we took students on a retreat to help nurture spiritual growth. A day away from the classroom for a day of outdoor adventure and prayer. As a school, we believe that one of the fundamentals of impactful learning is to build connections within our community. The retreat opportunity provided students the space to foster interaction through fun and physical team building activities. The retreat experience allowed students to build character in a non traditional way. It promoted vulnerability and bravery without judgement.
As a teacher, I spent the morning watching students play together. I hoped this day would help students develop into strong - spiritually minded people. Our afternoon session included an opportunity to participate in a modified zipline.
“Ms. Lang, you gonna go? ” my students asked.
“Yup, It looks fun!” I said.
“Really?!” they questioned. My answer was still an unequivocal yes.
The activity guide had agreed that he would fully support me swinging from the trees as long as I felt safe and confident. I put my helmet on and climbed the ladder. He harnessed me in. He then questioned,” Still feel good?” I was still certain. “Remember, shout as loud as you can.” he said.
And just like that I swung shouting from the trees…… It was so exhilarating!
This year has been so challenging. I have felt deep emotions as the one I cherished most, conquered cancer, dealt with the anxiety of the pandemic, argued with people I’m supposed to love, and really wondered if I was making a difference as an educator. I have prayed that fear would become hope and that sadness would soften into joy. I’ve struggled to be content. This year I’m thankful for the chance to swing from the trees. In the trees my burdens felt light.
As I hit the ground, there was a sense of excitement and slight surprise—” Ms. Lang is brave,” a few girls said to each other as they walked on. I was refreshed and smiled. Swinging from the trees was a tangible example of how I strive to live in bravery despite burden.
In the new year set your sights on ways that you can help others carry their burdens. Remember that happy and hopeful aren’t one in the same. You’ll be surprised how brave you can be in hope. May your burdens be light and your blessings many!
Peace & Hope,
Julie
