Stay strong and true to yourself. I found that I felt most at peace as a teacher when I left the expectations behind (district mandates, ever changing and more demanding curriculum goals for young minds) and spent time with my students engaged in activities that aligned with my values: savoring a good book, making art together, writing from the heart, marveling over the wonders of nature and exploring the world around us…listening to my students hopes and fears and exploring their questions. I taught primary school, and the ever changing demands were soul sapping. Yes, I mostly followed the dictates of my district, but I gave myself permission to occasionally abandon strictly “educational” goals in favor of things that fed my soul…and my students LOVED those experiences. ❤️ it’s ok. ❤️hugs to you! ❤️
I love your tree. I love your ending. I sent off my first query letters this weekend, so my waiting begins. I too am trying to do it in a cozy chair, reading a book, writing and loving and living, but it’s hard sometimes. I look forward to you sharing the things in time and I wish you peace in the meantime.
Your reflection on “letting go of control and letting change evolve” connects the personal and professional. The vivid journey of the Natchez crape myrtle serves as a poignant metaphor for the patience required in teaching and writing. Your honesty about waiting resonates deeply, making the piece an inspiring reminder to honour growth, even when unseen. As a primary school teacher myself I need to apply this more. Great post.
Stay strong and true to yourself. I found that I felt most at peace as a teacher when I left the expectations behind (district mandates, ever changing and more demanding curriculum goals for young minds) and spent time with my students engaged in activities that aligned with my values: savoring a good book, making art together, writing from the heart, marveling over the wonders of nature and exploring the world around us…listening to my students hopes and fears and exploring their questions. I taught primary school, and the ever changing demands were soul sapping. Yes, I mostly followed the dictates of my district, but I gave myself permission to occasionally abandon strictly “educational” goals in favor of things that fed my soul…and my students LOVED those experiences. ❤️ it’s ok. ❤️hugs to you! ❤️
So true. Those are the same things I love about teaching. Thanks for the reminder.
I love your tree. I love your ending. I sent off my first query letters this weekend, so my waiting begins. I too am trying to do it in a cozy chair, reading a book, writing and loving and living, but it’s hard sometimes. I look forward to you sharing the things in time and I wish you peace in the meantime.
Thanks. Trying to find a sense of peace in the waiting. Querying is also one of those feats in patience. Good luck!
Well now I'M I impatient to heat your big news 😁
Hahaha! It’s SO good. 😅
Your reflection on “letting go of control and letting change evolve” connects the personal and professional. The vivid journey of the Natchez crape myrtle serves as a poignant metaphor for the patience required in teaching and writing. Your honesty about waiting resonates deeply, making the piece an inspiring reminder to honour growth, even when unseen. As a primary school teacher myself I need to apply this more. Great post.
Thank you! And thanks for being a teacher. It’s so hard, and rewarding, and exhausting.