feelin' it

I was in a room with more than a thousand teachers today and the buzz was tangible.  You could feel the energy and the excitement and the enthusiasm, thick enough to spread on a big ole fat piece of bread.  I admit that I am a sucker for the pep talks teachers get.  They might be a bit hokey and "chin up", but I don't care.  It is a great profession and one to be enjoyed.  And like our superintendent said, "If you don't enjoy your job, go ahead and leave, and make room for people who do."  And he meant it, in his sweet, upbeat kind of way.

I got a lot of comments on a facebook post I put up yesterday about special education.  It hits people right in the chest.  I get that now that I have been in this classroom for 5 years.  Special ed gets under your skin until you can't imagine having any other job.  We sing, we dance, we talk about our families, and we reward even the smallest accomplishments.  Who would not love this gig?

So yes, today I am feelin' it.  I am feeling a purpose and a mission and a divine kinship with these little guys.  What a privilege. 

11 comments

Connie | August 20, 2010 at 5:19 PM

I agree! It was an awesome meeting and the excitement, enthusiasm, and love of the job, was tangible!

Kim | August 20, 2010 at 5:25 PM

SO COOL!!

Anonymous | August 20, 2010 at 6:12 PM

It's a privilege to work with kids; to celebrate accomplishments big and small; whoever they are-- wherever. And your heart speaks through your words. If I ever had a child who needed special ed, I would pray he or she had a teacher like you.

Lara Neves | August 20, 2010 at 6:54 PM

I think it takes a special person to work with the special ed. And you are definitely that person!

The Way I See It | August 20, 2010 at 11:01 PM

I love what the superintendent said. You can tell the teachers who love their jobs. The kids feel it, and they need teachers like you. I have ALWAYS held a high respect for teachers and am grateful to all of them. They can influence a child's life so much, for good or bad. You're one of the good!!!

Kazzy | August 20, 2010 at 11:03 PM

Kids need heads and hearts nurtured. Everyone should agree with that at least.:)

Welcome to the Garden of Egan | August 20, 2010 at 11:31 PM

I'm excited for you! You must be an amazing teacher.
Have a great year!

LisAway | August 21, 2010 at 12:19 AM

Sounds like the best way to be feelin' just before school starts! When I was in Head Start I always loved the group meetings before school started. And I totally agree. Any teacher who doesn't like their job should NOT be teaching. I remember my first grade teacher was an older lady and she really just should have been retired. She was exceedingly grouchy and my second grade teach was like an angel.

Robin | August 21, 2010 at 12:51 AM

I can't imagine many things better than really enjoying what you do in life.

You are truly blessed.

mermaid gallery | August 21, 2010 at 6:53 AM

I'm sure all the parents of the children that you teach are very thrilled to have you in their lives. I love all the positive reinforcement. We all need that , all of the time....Well done!!!!!

Jenny | August 22, 2010 at 10:51 AM

Ditto on this one! Looking forward to getting back this week. Love working with children.