The other night I was mesmerized by a fire. I stood looking at the flames, the wood, feeling the heat and thinking how destructive and renewing fire can be. I thought about the need to set one’s heart on fire for what is truly loved and desired.
Teaching is a true love of mine. I knew in high school that I wanted to be a special education teacher, and I am. I really can’t foresee myself doing anything else. For many of us, there are specifics about teaching that set our hearts on fire in a way that can be destructive or renewing. There are a few phrases that will raise my hackles and set my heart burning in a destructive manner. However, it is time to turn that destruction into something renewed.
The phrase “buy-in” is meant to be one that shows acceptance and willingness, yet, my thoughts go to coercion or some sort of sales tactic. I hear many teachers and administration talk about how they can “buy-in” to a particular way of thinking. Or that with just the right incentive students will “buy-in” to the activity. I don’t want to “buy-in” to anything (unless it’s a fantastic vacation package or timeshare in the tropics somewhere).
Instead, I want to be ignited and inspired by the new thinking. I want to know that those around me are being empowered by an activity. I want students to be able to take ownership of what is being asked of them. I want to encourage and establish a desire in students and colleagues to keep going forward with their learning and growth. I want those around me to feel the renewing strength of their heart on fire.