Wisdom of our Elders, the reflection

First off, I just want to comment on how lucky I feel to listen to these Elders talk.  It doesn’t matter what subject they decide to talk about, I am completely engaged and absording everything they have to say.  I think that all three of them had great points to make.  The passion in David’s voice and body language is inspiring.  He makes me feel like I can do anything, which wasn’t something that was declared during my childhood. If only I had a pocket version of David to take around with me when I’m having a rough day.  But, with that being said, I am a huge supporter of everything he has to say about letting the child know they are capable and they are intelligent.  Making sure the student knows you have confidence in them helps them build confidence for themselves.

Linda had a couple things that stuck with me, one being the use of the circle drawing when I get stressed out.  I have been aware of this concept and thought process but to take the time to physically draw and visualize it brings a whole new aspect. It seems so simple, yet so powerful.  The amount of the time she has spent in a school is proof that she has many more tools in her tool belt.  Being able to hear the few she shared today is something I will be able to add to mine for my upcoming career.

Selina was able to share something that can’t be put into words.  It was the pure emotions that came from her brief overview that has stuck with me.  I am lucky enough to say, at this point in my life, I have never been told I can’t speak my native language.  I don’t even have anything to compare to what this might’ve felt like.  All I can say is: I heard and felt what she said and that I will do everything in my power to make sure none of my students feel that way.  And although Selina’s experience was mostly associated with her native language, it is important to me that none of my students have that feeling that younger school-aged Selina felt when she was told her native language was forbidden to use.