Today has been one of those days that requires strength that I can't seem to find. There are so many forces upon me as a teacher and sometimes I become so frustrated that it is difficult to mask better yet control---the kicker is that I get so upset with myself for allowing my negativity to emit itself and sometimes feel, (gasp) regret for my actions and/or energies. At moments like these I try to channel anything I can, including the influence of one of my only idols: Audrey Hepburn. I don't necessarily think, "What would Audrey do", instead I think of how I have always considered her to be synonymous with strength.
Some may see Audrey as a style or beauty icon, but what always struck me was the hardships she went through with grace and humility. She was forced out of her home during WWII, seriously injured as a child, suffered multiple miscarriages, and later developed inoperable colon cancer that caused her severe pain-- yet she persevered and not only managed to mother two children she became a UN Ambassador who worked in over 20 countries helping needy children. Even close to her death when she was in fragile health, she continued to build the Audrey Hepburn Children Fund and work with UNICEF to help those in even worse circumstances. Check out this site for more on her humanitarian work.
Whenever I feel a meltdown approach, I think of someone like Audrey, who was able to channel her pain and circumstance into positive energy. I am aware that my own pain or anger only promotes more pain and anger.
Recently I gave my students a quote by Booker T. Washington to interpret: "It is the character, not the circumstance that makes the man." For any of those who have ever been in the wake of my negativity, I apologize, for as little as it may seem to others, I am hyper aware of myself and always seek to improve.
Audrey was an astounding woman - I applaud your choice as someone to emulate. Being an educator in today's world I'm sure tries your patience continually. As one with a degree but have never taught - thank you for persevering, and for caring about those around you, as well as yourself.
ReplyDeleteMay tomorrow bring you sunshine & laughter...
As funny as it sounds I've always admired you for caring to the point of frustration. So many people can be apathetic- esp. educators. Being passionate has its price but you've found a great way to redirect your focus on the bigger picture. And I can gaurantee you, what you teach and how you present it is making an impact, even if you don't witness it firsthand.
ReplyDeleteYes, I've had many of those days with teaching...and frustration with life issues in general! I hate to see you feeling down! Thank you for reminding me that there are graceful ways to channel the negative into positive. What a great role model she is...a real Beauty. xoxo
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