Visible (Day 8 of 10)

Yesterday was an exhausting but fulfilling day. I have been given the job of watching the little boy that is having a tough time and is being given a special role to help him feel needed and necessary.

In many ways, I am that child. I learn slowly. My body doesn't work as well as it used to work. I am insecure and I like to be paid attention to as well.

Well, who doesn't, you say.

My little charge is full of energy and ideas and helping him is saving me. After all, making connections is more important to me than being a perfect teacher.

We also had a great workshop with Ellen Weinstein, who made me feel included and necessary for the first time this week. She didn't avoid me because I hurt my knee. She didn't ignore me because I couldn't do all the movements.

She encouraged me.

She guided me.

She valued me.

She saw me!

By modeling this I am much more aware of the strategies I need for little kids.

I am the child that isn't in the front anymore.

But, this doesn't mean I don't feel a need for being needed.