opportunity

This week, the principal of the school that I have been working at on a temporary basis asked to see me in her office.

She told me that the school wanted to have me there for the balance of the year ... she'd had a lot of positive feedback, and hoped I could join the staff until the end of June.

This really made my day. I have been hopping around here and there ... substituting as an Educational Assistant for about a year now, and this was nice. This school has an awesome administration, excellent caring talented teachers, and wonderful kids. I love this school.

The class I work with is a great group of five / sixes. I spend much of my time with one student, but also assist with the rest of the class when possible.

I remember when I was that young ... I remember feeling lost, unsure ... confused and unfocussed. I remember - and that helps me a lot in my job.

These kids are at a wonderful age. They are exploring communication and relationships, learning and growing, and open in many ways to improving aspects of who they are.

This is a golden opportunity. Every day, I see little windows where I can help them in their journey. They are receptive and I will not let this chance go by.

Wherever possible I share as many positive aspects of interactions as possible. I often remind them that we are all brothers and sisters here ... we are all family. Treat each other with respect and consideration. When people see that you are caring and respectful, they respect you.

The class is a family ... part of a bigger family - the school; which is part of a larger family - the community; and the community is part of a bigger family - Ontario ... Canada ... The World ...

We are all brothers and sisters.

I hope that a little bit of some of the things I say get absorbed here and there. Occasionally I get little glimpses that they are listening.

It's really a beautiful, joyful experience ... like watering a garden, or adding your spices to a Sunday Morning omelette.

I love these kids, and see the potential in them ... they are the future, and are growing into their own strengths and knowledge. I will help them and care for them ... it is a wonderful thing.