Dear Colleagues and Friends,
These are tough times for many. Whether it’s food insecurity, economic uncertainty, fear of deportation, or general civil unrest, there is a growing sense of darkness around all of us – made worse by the short days and long nights leading up to the Winter Solstice.
Many years ago, when I was in the midst of a personal crisis, a wise faith leader taught me that a powerful antidote to pain is to give to others. “Make someone a meal,” he suggested. “Visit someone who is sick or help a neighbor in need.” It seemed paradoxical that in my time of need I should pause to help someone else, but I heeded his advice – and the result was surprisingly uplifting. Human connection can be a powerful balm; it grounds us and reminds us of how much we share – even across our inevitable differences. I am so grateful to have received advice that I’ve been carrying with me since that time.
On the eve of Thanksgiving, I am reflecting on gratitude. I am grateful for so many things: my good health, my faith, my family, my friends, my colleagues, and my personal and professional communities. I am also keenly aware of my social and economic privilege during these heavy times, when so much remains uncertain for so many people.
I am deeply grateful to be involved in such meaningful work supporting educators creating “third spaces” of belonging and care. We want young people to be fully engaged in their learning, and to feel confident and competent. We often forget that the most direct path to realizing those aspirations is by providing the adults in the room – the educators – with learning experiences that help them to feel fully engaged, confident and competent. This has been proven by decades of research on motivation and self-determination, and it is our charge to close the gap between the way things have always been done and what we know to be true.
Before the holiday, I invite you to take a moment to reflect on whom and what you are grateful for this year. May your Thanksgiving holiday be filled with love, laughter, delicious food – and space for reflection and gratitude.
With warmth and appreciation,
Jane
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