SOL18: So Much to Process

Thank you to Two Writing Teachers for creating space every Tuesday to share our writing.

Last night, we had our last Family Library Night.  It was a thank you celebration for the families I’ve created relationships with over the years and a way to say farewell. It was overwhelming.

Students who were in their 20s and 30s came to school along with current schools.  I wear a mantra band that says STORY.  And each one of the students, families, and colleagues have a story to share.

I am grateful.  Grateful to have had a work home for thirty-four years.  During the last few weeks, I’ve come to realize that teaching has truly been an advocation that I never questioned other than to move from the classroom to the library.

These two girls have incredible stories.  The one on my right’s father went to Silver Star. She has persevered through some challenging times during her life.  The one on my left is the half-sister of the second grader who tragically died in 2004.  Her brother’s accident planted the seed of the manuscript I am working on.  As a fifth grader she just read my manuscript and in her card to me, she called us family.

This morning, I talked with a longtime friend who attended the celebration.  Her observation gave me pause.  I had never considered that it is within the school community, I’m known as “MsMac.”  It’s my school persona.  Hmmm…

I’m sure over the next few months, these will be wonderings I will process. But during these days of H, G, F, E, D, C, B, A (backward alphabet countdown), I will enjoy being present for my work home and family.

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