Pools of Blessing
  • Home
  • About
  • Links to Previous Posts
  • 30 Days for Women

Psalm 84:5-6

Happy are those who are strong in the Lord, who set their minds on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. When they walk through the Valley of Weeping it will become a place of refreshing springs, where pools of blessing collect after the rains.

Bruising Does not Equal Brokenness

7/26/2022

 
My book, You are Not Broken, was written in response to a situation in which one of my students broke down crying and declared that she was working with me because she was, "stupid." Stupid is a term I never permit my students to use when it comes to describing themselves. When she used that word, I was determined to prove her wrong. The result was this book. I intend to publish it this year because it encompasses an important and vital message for any child who feels that they are not enough.

There are several reasons why I became a special education teacher. I believe quality instruction that matches student need can have an enormous impact on a child's ability to close the gap with peers. I believe that all students can achieve their goals with the right guidance, support, and encouragement from adults who believe in them. The most meaningful reason I became a special education teacher is because I understand why students who receive the label "special education," feel inadequate.

I was not a student who received special education services in school. Learning to read, write and do basic math came easy for me. However, though I do not have a specific learning disability, I relate to feelings of inadequacy. In 2004, after my diagnosis, I loathed who I was and lived under an umbrella of shame for many years. As I have worked on my sense of self-worth this past year, I now understand that my condition does not define who I am nor what I am capable of. My own experience of dealing with these negative opinions about myself is what makes me an amazing special education teacher. I not only work on the skills necessary to assist my students in building academic success, I also foster their belief in themselves and their potential in this world.

The images above are bruises I received following a bike accident in June. While it was embarrassing to take a spill on a particularly busy intersection in my community, I surprised myself by dusting off, getting back on my bike, and pedaling home in peace. In my case, bruising did not equal brokenness. I am full of excitement over what this next year has in store for me. Stay tuned. Good things are ahead. 'Til next time.

Picture

Comments are closed.
    Pools of Blessing YouTube Channel
Photo used under Creative Commons from Eric@focus
  • Home
  • About
  • Links to Previous Posts
  • 30 Days for Women