Hats off to Teachers

Wow, I just spent the day with a group of Grade 9 students at my work. I was originally scheduled to give a brief presentation this morning, and it evolved into a full day event for me as co-facilitator with Andrew Al-Khouri, friend, co-worker and Chair of the Avant Guarde Youth Network at work.

Each student I met today had their own thing that they were interested in and passionate about. There was one who really enjoyed babysitting because she loved children; a young man who really enjoyed writing songs; a few young ladies who enjoyed writing & reading poetry; soccer; wake boarding; snow boarding; playing music; one young lady played a slew of sports... basketball, soccer, football, just to name a few. They were really quite amazing.

One of the activities they had to accomplish during the day was to build a bridge out of popsicle sticks, glue, and paperclips. Each group had such a different approach and the group who had felt their bridge wasn't completed at the end of the day was the group that built the strongest bridge. Just goes to show that you never know unless you try.

It was a pretty amazing day for me to see the energy these students had. And I only spent 5 hours with them. My hats off to teachers because I'm not sure I'd have it in me (I'm am ready for bed now!)

My presentation went well considering I was the first "presentation". Some of the children enjoyed it, some actively participated in it, others just listened, or not. As always it's not about reaching everyone, for me it is about speaking my truth and if I inspire just one person, I have moved one step closer to my intention. I haven't asked for feedback yet on my speech, I think I will ask Andrew tomorrow what he though (he heard me speak before a group in June... I spoke fast & my voice shook then). I know he will give me a good critique on my "presence" during my presentation. I know I did it differently today, and it will be interesting to hear how it appears from another party.

As soon as I can get my kids off to bed I'm going to be sawing logs.

And there is always tomorrow.