tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55155473834545280842024-03-13T08:15:42.295-07:00This Counselor's JourneyMartyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.comBlogger65125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-92042971136510757412016-02-15T08:19:00.001-08:002016-02-15T08:21:52.413-08:00Set Your Intentions #9<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When a flower does not bloom, you fix the environment in which it grows, not the flower. </span>-Alexander Den HeijerMartyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-68875092475054503552014-06-03T13:36:00.000-07:002014-06-04T06:07:45.769-07:00Summer Reading<div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR2b9Ofo3hbZEs5ySH2Ul34gvc-Q1V5cg-JBH13vWVQKHbO9pnpytepDoE6RjFHmdS8mPqfG5JwcegP8kDXbRKPhIFo-tLlua4s6TiK6hoZrpHWkqKA4urXQg83NJCmNyn4f8sYN1Klbs7/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR2b9Ofo3hbZEs5ySH2Ul34gvc-Q1V5cg-JBH13vWVQKHbO9pnpytepDoE6RjFHmdS8mPqfG5JwcegP8kDXbRKPhIFo-tLlua4s6TiK6hoZrpHWkqKA4urXQg83NJCmNyn4f8sYN1Klbs7/s1600/photo.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I am going to be reading these books over the summer. In part, because it will help me in my own parenting with my 9 year old daughter and son. Also, because it will push me to learn/grow as an educator, advocate for the young people I work with, collaborate with colleagues, and be a resource for parents at school.<br />
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If you are interested in a casual book chat, please let me know. Here are the books:</div>
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<a href="http://redefininggirly.wordpress.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Redefining Girly</strong></a></div>
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<a href="https://rosalindwiseman.com/rwpublications/masterminds-and-wingmen/" target="_blank"><strong>Masterminds and Wingmen</strong></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.carolyndalgliesh.com/" target="_blank"><strong>The Sensory Child Gets Organized</strong></a></div>
Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-37146568740292767652014-05-30T10:10:00.002-07:002014-05-30T11:11:23.635-07:00Set Your Intentions #8<span style="font-size: large;">What I would really like said about me is that I dared to love. By love I mean that condition in the human spirit so profound it encourages us to develop courage and build bridges, and then to trust those bridges and cross the bridges in attempts to reach other human beings. </span><br />
<strong style="font-size: x-large;"> - Maya Angelou</strong><br />
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Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-50958927238727866312014-04-06T08:18:00.000-07:002014-04-07T14:44:15.943-07:00Family Engagement<br />
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Parent Engagement is something I have been thinking a lot about this year. The more it percolated in my mind the more I came to believe that I needed to think about it differently. This led me to think about Family Engagement.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Parent engagement is different then Family engagement. After all, our students go home to siblings that are not yet school age, Grandparents, and other relatives who may live with them. I wanted to consider a way to include and engage everyone in the entire home. Many people influence our kids and that ripple effect is far reaching. Each family member has a Voice which needs to feel worthy, to be proudly expressed, and to be accepted with loving kindness. So, how could I connect school life and family life?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What I came up with is the One Family Word challenge.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I envisioned each family having a conversation about choosing a Word to motivate and inspire them. A Word to encourage each family member to be the best they could be and a reminder for how they want to live as a Family.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The intention was to bring Family and School together in a simple, yet meaningful way in which everyone can participate and show support for each other in our school community.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here is the text that is in the middle of the above photo: </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">One Word.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">That is all it takes.</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">To motivate. To inspire. To transform.</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Words Matter.</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">They can encourage. They can empower.
They can nurture. They can ignite and take you wherever you envision.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">You Matter.</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">You can change the world. You can help others.
You make a difference just by embracing your Self. You can do anything.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">One Family Word.</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Imagine what can be achieved with the caring
support of your Family. Look at these Words selected by our families.
They are Awesome.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Our School Community</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">100 families and counting have taken up the One
Family Word challenge. We can harness this energy and do wonderful things
together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #222222;">I</span><span style="color: #222222;"> have no idea where this may lead or what comes next. Just that it is part of the adventure and that together we can offer caring support and personal inspiration to each individual's journey with One Family Word. </span></span></span></div>
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Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-36217031402477881262014-01-18T14:08:00.001-08:002014-01-18T14:08:20.447-08:00One Family Word<span style="font-size: large;">My Family has decided to come up with a Word for us. We settled on Contagious. As in-- our mood can rub off to each other in a positive happy-making manner or in a negative grumpy sour type of way. We are going to make a group effort to be mindful of how our attitude/mood/frame of mind can impact other family members. Wish us luck and I'll keep you posted.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">How about you-- does your family have a word?</span><br />
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<a href="http://aztechbeat.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Contagioustitle-700x325.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://aztechbeat.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Contagioustitle-700x325.jpg" height="148" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-81647746939968469322014-01-14T16:45:00.000-08:002014-01-14T16:45:53.465-08:00Rest<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">My word for 2012 was Filter. You can read about it <a href="http://thiscounselorsjourney.blogspot.com/2012/05/filter.html"><strong>Here</strong></a>. Last year my word was Carve. Read about that <a href="http://thiscounselorsjourney.blogspot.com/2013/01/carve.html"><strong>Here</strong></a>. </span><span style="font-size: large;">I was starting to wonder what my word for 2014 was going to be and even thought of not doing it this year at all.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And then these Tweets happened:</span><br />
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<tr><td style="font-size: 1px;" width="8"> </td><td width="32"><a href="https://twitter.com/i/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2Fmartylstevens%2Fstatus%2F421624710917816320&sig=750a9f4360714235ccf51b4c354a6c0cbbece948&uid=388017532&iid=92fc3eebd8f9451f82afcdcdcddf122c&nid=151+1282&t=1" style="border-image: none; border: currentColor; color: #0084b4; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><img align="left" alt="" border="0" height="32" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEi2CTgusG2uska1QIEI9CeLisYiu0hrZDeVqU82GCc6ZJ5IZqdxSgz96HLQ8ScsDAQdm4LwwtrjPvl9UHf1MUCpTBL9sMuCKMfC3wZ6rCRdmadCNGHcgIV5bRiyhfGikQyOMzg9iUa4w2OzlvxPawK-jxvvmU3dpTkXesW68ZDrUCsGFojzC_80Ouu3_bkkpumdGLJ5-jP-gQWpBxke3kbTalKCVMiCZjXqPiL7DHk=s0-d-e1-ft" style="background-color: white; border-image: none; border-radius: 4px; border: currentColor; display: inline-block; float: left; margin-right: 0px;" width="32" /></a></td><td style="padding-left: 21px;" valign="top"><span style="color: #333333; display: block; font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://twitter.com/i/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2Fmartylstevens%2Fstatus%2F421624710917816320&sig=750a9f4360714235ccf51b4c354a6c0cbbece948&uid=388017532&iid=92fc3eebd8f9451f82afcdcdcddf122c&nid=151+1284&t=1" style="border-image: none; border: currentColor; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Marty Stevens</a> </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 14px; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://twitter.com/i/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2Fmartylstevens%2Fstatus%2F421624710917816320&sig=750a9f4360714235ccf51b4c354a6c0cbbece948&uid=388017532&iid=92fc3eebd8f9451f82afcdcdcddf122c&nid=151+1284&t=1" style="border-image: none; border: currentColor; color: rgb(153, 153, 153) !important; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">@martylstevens</a> </span> </td></tr>
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I am on the shelf for a few weeks from running</div>
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due to tearing my inguinal tendon. <a href="https://twitter.com/i/redirect?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2Fsearch%3Fq%3D%2523500in2014&sig=4002175d2d29a3a336e4c6808b345472aa8920c5&uid=388017532&iid=92fc3eebd8f9451f82afcdcdcddf122c&nid=151+1289&t=1" style="border-image: none; border: currentColor; color: #0084b4; direction: ltr; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">#500in2014</a></div>
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Any suggestions for a speedy recovery?</div>
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<tr><td style="padding-left: 10px;" valign="top"><span style="color: #333333; display: block; font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;"> <a href="https://twitter.com/i/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2Fjesslahey%2Fstatus%2F421624847035551745&sig=9205349efa4e78356781eaa9a7de6f211f161ee9&uid=388017532&iid=92fc3eebd8f9451f82afcdcdcddf122c&nid=151+1264&t=1" style="border-image: none; border: currentColor; color: #333333; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Jessica Lahey</a> </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;"><a href="https://twitter.com/i/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2Fjesslahey%2Fstatus%2F421624847035551745&sig=9205349efa4e78356781eaa9a7de6f211f161ee9&uid=388017532&iid=92fc3eebd8f9451f82afcdcdcddf122c&nid=151+1264&t=1" style="border-image: none; border: currentColor; color: rgb(153, 153, 153) !important; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">@jesslahey</a> </span> </td></tr>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/i/redirect?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2Fmartylstevens%3Frefsrc%3Demail&sig=2d4962f52616b57b1d45ee2d420f1661f41c03eb&uid=388017532&iid=92fc3eebd8f9451f82afcdcdcddf122c&nid=151+1271&t=1" style="border-image: none; border: currentColor; color: #0084b4; direction: ltr; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">@martylstevens</a> rest, rest, <br />
rest and more rest. That's a <br />
painful one! Good luck!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">So, now my Word for 2014 is a no brainer. It absolutely, positively, without a doubt has to be Rest. Thanks, Jess, for pointing out what seems so obvious, but was not what I was wanting to do--REST</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Letting my injury heal is front and center at the moment. (A group of Educators have taken up the challenge to run 500 miles in 2014. It is inspirational and they provide wonderful support. However, I am woefully behind due to this setback. I will need all their encouragement once I return. Watch our progress on Twitter at #500in2014). </span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">After I recover and can get back to running, then I need to be especially mindful to Rest. It seems from the moment I awake to the time my head hits the pillow I am in full throttle motion without a moment to myself. Rest to rejuvenate. To recalibrate. To replenish. Mostly, though, Rest just for the sake of Rest.</span></span><br />
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Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-79871972115239427812013-11-03T08:00:00.000-08:002013-11-03T08:00:59.685-08:00The Invisible Boy And The Need To Be Appreciated And Accepted<br />
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Trudy Ludwig. <br />
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She is a Hero of mine. <br />
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There was a time when I admired athletes, movie stars, and musicians. Not anymore. Now I most admire KidLit authors and illustrators. Trudy is probably on my Mount Rushmore of children's authors.</div>
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She has a new book, <a href="http://trudyludwig.com/mybook_invisible.html"><strong>The Invisible Boy</strong></a>. You should read it. If you are a parent it should be on your bookshelf. If you are an Educator of any kind-- Teacher, Librarian, School Counselor--you must have access to it at your school. It needs to be in your hands and the hands of your students.</div>
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Every young person needs to experience a true sense of belonging. Every young person needs to feel valued. Every young person needs to BE appreciated and accepted for who they are. No. Matter. What. Trudy's book addresses these important issues of Being.</div>
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So, what's the book about? Read about it <a href="https://www.responsiveclassroom.org/blog/invisible-boy"><strong>here</strong></a>. And <a href="http://booksthathealkids.blogspot.com/2013/10/book-review-invisible-boy.html"><strong>here</strong></a>. <a href="http://micheleborba.com/blog/helping-invisible-students/"><strong>Here</strong></a>, too.<br />
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This activity guide from <a href="http://peacefirst.org/"><strong>Peace First</strong></a> may further help to foster a more complete understanding: <a href="http://peacefirst.org/images/pdf/Peace%20First%20Sample%20Lesson%204th%20grade%20Exclusion.pdf"><strong>Inclusion/Exclusion</strong></a>. <br />
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There are lots of adults out there who are like the character in The Invisible Boy. A book by Susan Cain may enhance your awareness-- <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Quiet-Power-Introverts-World-Talking/dp/0307352153"><strong>Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking</strong></a>.<br />
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The invisible boy and others like him are easy to overlook or dismiss or disregard. Please do not do that. Start by reading The Invisible Boy. It will move you to make a difference in someone's life. <br />
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Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-28044641516484548892013-10-13T10:12:00.000-07:002013-10-13T14:33:17.353-07:00How Do You Suck?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do you suck out all the marrow of Life?</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/quotes/2690-i-went-to-the-woods-because-i-wished-to-live" target="_blank">(Click here to see the entire Thoreau quote).</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Or do you suck all the energy from a room?</span></div>
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<br />Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-4173812618569730262013-09-06T18:21:00.001-07:002013-09-06T18:24:10.175-07:00Words for 2013<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Obviously I am reporting back later than I had originally intended, That happens sometimes. Especially when your word for the year was CARVE. I have been putting forth a sincere effort to CARVE space for all that is important to me. Here is my One little word post for 2013-- </span><a href="http://thiscounselorsjourney.blogspot.com/2013/01/carve.html"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>CARVE</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;">. With the start of a new school year underway and heading into the home stretch of 2013 I am being extra mindful to follow the Intentions I set back in January.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Some folks in my PLN also picked their word for the year:</span><br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/celinabrennan"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Celina Brennan</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> BELIEVE</span><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/annottmar"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Ann Ottmar</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> VOICE</span><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/azjd"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Jeff Delp</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> TODAY</span><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/L_Hilt"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Lyn Hilt</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> BEGINNINGS</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I also put out a call to authors to choose a word for the year and share it with me. Here are their Words:</span><br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/juliacookonline"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Julia Cook</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> TRY</span><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/peterhreynolds"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Peter Reynolds</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> TRANSCEND</span><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/TrudyLudwig"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Trudy Ludwig</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> REACH</span><br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/HVFrederick"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Heather Frederick</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> DIVE</span><br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/susanhilllong"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Susan Hill Long</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> OVER.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, everyone, I hope your Word has lived up to your expectations and I trust you found the meaning in your Word which you set your intentions for. Report back to us and share how your special word has impacted your life. And, if you have yet to find a Word for yourself it is never too late.</span></div>
Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-82951721519207338582013-02-18T16:24:00.002-08:002013-02-18T16:24:25.041-08:00Top Three Issues Impacting Students<span style="font-size: large;">Quick, what are the top three issues most impacting young people today. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I had the privilege of being part of an Interview Team and that question was posed to the candidates.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I would have loved to engage in a conversation with the candidates regarding their choices, but being an interview and all, there was no time for that. (Perhaps we need to change the way we go about interviewing. I am thinking it should be more conversational, instead of buzz words and sound bites).</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This question has stuck with me and I would be interested in your perspective and feedback. </span><span style="font-size: large;">I wish I could have had a meaningful conversation with the candidates and then asked them to express their ideas on how to promote positive change to these issues.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here are my top three--</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Stress. </strong>Or maybe you call it Worry or Anxiety. More and more I think it is a chronic state of being for young people. To be sure, chronic stress does a lot of damage to one's mental state and physical well-being. Here is a recent study on <a href="http://www.cm-life.com/2013/02/13/stress-levels-in-young-adults-reach-an-all-time-high/"><strong>Stress</strong></a> by the American Psychological Association. While this focus is on young adults, I find it to be true for children.</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Social Connectedness. </strong>I think there is a lack of it for some of our young people. Inherently we have a need for a sense of belonging and, yet, that is something that is missing from so many lives. How many students do not feel a connection with their teacher? How many families have a sit-down meal together? How many kids do not know how to engage in play? How many are being intentionally/unintentionally excluded socially? In general, is there a genuine connection being made that is lasting and meaningful?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Thinking.</strong> By that, I mean knowing what to do when you do not know what to do. </span><span style="font-size: large;">I am a big believer that we all need Alone Time/Quiet Time. I have found that time without constraints can provide ample space for reflection, helps you regulate your behavior, and reaps the benefit of problem solving and figuring out what to do when you do not know what to do.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I imagine your top three issues will vary depending on your student demographics and school culture/climate. That's why I want to hear from you. Please leave a Comment. Or write your own post about it, but be sure to leave a link here in the comment section.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Come to think of it, maybe I'll ask students what their Top Three Issues are which impact them...</span>Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-75932285654190438112013-02-04T16:50:00.001-08:002013-02-04T16:50:48.956-08:00To Where It Is Headed<a class="single" href="http://www.gapingvoidart.com/images/skate_1.gif" title="Skate"><img alt="Skate" border="0" height="300" name="prodimg" src="http://www.gapingvoidart.com/product_thumb.php?img=images/skate_1.gif&w=533&h=400" title="Skate" width="400" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I love this quote (and artwork by </span><a href="http://www.gapingvoidart.com/index.php"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Hugh MacLeod</span></strong></a><span style="font-size: large;">). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is such a challenge, though.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a challenge, to me, because<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the puck--Education--is always changing, adapting, evolving, moving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or at least it should be and needs to be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now more than ever we need to be forward moving with laser vision and not grounded in the past</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">. Another challenge this presents is that it requires caring, thoughtful leadership to inspire/motivate everyone to be headed in that direction and it beckons collaboration and teamwork from everyone. (Here is a very good post by <a href="http://twitter.com/L_Hilt"><strong>Lyn Hilt</strong></a> called <a href="http://lynhilt.com/thecareeffect/"><strong>The Care Effect</strong></a>).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Can we honestly say we are adapting and evolving with focused purpose and passion? Can we say we are moving in a direction that is driven by what is best for young people and based on good pedagogy? Are we changing with the times and using all the best of what's available?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We can see where the puck is heading, but often can only make a hypothesis as to the trajectory and pace. </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Think about it—we are preparing kids for a future which we have no idea what it will be like.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Usually we prepare them for our past. We need to stop teaching and living and leading like that.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Let’s make an effort to go where the puck is headed, and not where it is now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What are your thoughts?</span></div>
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Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-56343534795941117272013-01-17T13:42:00.000-08:002013-01-20T08:08:52.371-08:00Carve<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Last year I came across the </span><a href="http://oneword365.com/"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>One Word Challenge</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;">-- a word that encapsulates how you want to live and who you want to be. For 2012 my word was </span><a href="http://thiscounselorsjourney.blogspot.com/2012/05/filter.html"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Filter</span></strong></a><span style="font-size: large;">.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am having a bit of a time pinpointing a word for 2013. There are a lot of words percolating within me: Gratitude. Easy. Time. Mindful. Breathe.Willingness. Capacity. Transition. Remember.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">All good words, all words that would do me good as a point of focus. All words I will be mindful of as I navigate 2013. However, the word for me this year is <strong>Carve</strong>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Carve</strong> time for family. For friends. For my profession/right livelihood. For me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I recently took a wood carving class. It was a fun thing for me to do, as well as an important creative outlet.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It was difficult, though, as it removed me from my comfort zone. I am a big advocate of Malcom Gladwell and his referencing of the 10,000 Hour Rule. School counseling is like the back of my hand. Wood carving, on the other hand, is something where I am a true rookie. I have logged about 40 hours. 10,000 is a long way away. So, I hope to continue to practice the art of carving. I believe it will be a valuable tool for me to be nurturing and understanding to those I encounter on their own journey toward Mastery.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I need to be mindful to <strong>Carve</strong> out time for my kids. They are seven and have entered the stage of their lives where they are involved with lots of activities: soccer, ballet, art, swimming, and on and on. It can be a hectic schedule. It seems as if my kids were just born and here they are becoming their own people. I am so very proud, but I still need to <strong>Carve</strong> a space for just me and them where there are no outside distractions.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And my wife! So much of our time is devoted to being Parents and Educators. It can be exhausting. I definitely need to <strong>Carve</strong> out more Date Nights with her. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Professionally, there are times when I am assigned a not so desirable task. I will strive to use this less then ideal situation and <strong>Carve</strong> it into something workable and to which I can take ownership.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I need to <strong>Carve</strong> time for myself, too. I am not much good to others in my life, professionally or personally, if I lose sight of this. So, it will be important to <strong>Carve</strong> a niche just for me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I like the word <strong>Carve</strong> because it reminds me to be an active participant in life. Sometimes, a mindset develops that stuff happens to you. I suppose stuff does happen to you, however, it is how I respond to the stuff that matters. Mostly, it will mean making space for that which matters most to me and whittling away that which is an impediment. I hope to do a lot of Carving this year to positive, healthy results.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If you have not picked a word for 2013 I encourage you to give it a try. Here are a few folks from my PLN who did-- </span><a href="http://www.jeffdelp.com/2012/12/31/today-i-will/"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Jeff Delp</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, </span><a href="http://lynhilt.com/beginnings/"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Lyn Hil</strong>t</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, </span><a href="http://themindsofbreott.blogspot.com/2012/12/voice-for-2013.html"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Ann Ottmar</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, and </span><a href="http://themindsofbreott.blogspot.com/2012/12/voice-for-2013.html"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Celina Brennan</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;">. Click on their names to see their word. Perhaps, by reading about their Word for 2013 they can serve to jump start and inspire you. Add your Word to the comments below.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I wish you well for 2013.</span><br />
<br />Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-33351511361628301852013-01-13T12:53:00.002-08:002013-01-13T16:17:06.418-08:00School Counseling Linky Party<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null"><img alt="Picture" height="198" src="http://www.elementaryschoolcounseling.org/uploads/1/3/8/5/1385140/7090982.gif?445" style="max-width: 100%; width: auto;" width="400" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am a bit late to this, but here I am nonetheless. Marissa Rex has an ever resourceful counseling blog, <a href="http://www.elementaryschoolcounseling.org/marissas-blog.html"><strong>Elementary School Counseling</strong></a></span><span style="font-size: large;">. Only go there when you have plenty of time as there is alot of stuff you'll want to use in your own work with young people.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">She is hosting a Linky Party, where anyone gets to reflect on their own blog from the past year. It is a fun way to reflect on 2012 and gear up for 2013.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Picture" height="68" src="http://www.elementaryschoolcounseling.org/uploads/1/3/8/5/1385140/7175845.gif?246" style="max-width: 100%; width: auto;" width="200" /> </a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My best feature is Set Your Intentions. Simply stated, it is quotes which inspire me. I put them out there to share with you with hopes that they provide motivation for you. Here is my very first one- <a href="http://thiscounselorsjourney.blogspot.com/2011/03/set-your-intention.html"><strong>Watering Your Dreams</strong></a>.</span><br />
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<img alt="Picture" height="69" src="http://www.elementaryschoolcounseling.org/uploads/1/3/8/5/1385140/670116.gif?246" style="max-width: 100%; width: auto;" width="200" /><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For me, this post encapsulates so much of what I value-- a growth mindset, the process of change, and getting comfortable with being uncomfortable-- </span><a href="http://thiscounselorsjourney.blogspot.com/2012/05/learning-is-leap-of-faith.html"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Learning is a Leap of Faith</span></strong></a><span style="font-size: large;">. The girl in this video is awesome!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null"><img alt="Picture" height="69" src="http://www.elementaryschoolcounseling.org/uploads/1/3/8/5/1385140/5808612.gif?244" style="max-width: 100%; width: auto;" width="200" /> </a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Most of what I write evolves over a lengthy period of time. This post, however, was written in a matter of minutes-- </span><a href="http://thiscounselorsjourney.blogspot.com/2012/02/advocate.html"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Advocate</span></strong></a><span style="font-size: large;">. Erin Mason from </span><a href="http://sconlineprofessionalexchange.wikispaces.com/"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">SCOPE</span></strong></a><span style="font-size: large;"> tweeted a question and it turned into this post.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null"><img alt="Picture" height="68" src="http://www.elementaryschoolcounseling.org/uploads/1/3/8/5/1385140/218796.gif?246" style="max-width: 100%; width: auto;" width="200" /> </a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You want a kid lit book to work on just about anything? This is the place to find it--<strong> </strong></span><a href="http://booksthathealkids.blogspot.com/"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Books That Heal Kids</span></strong></a><br />
<img alt="" height="78" id="Image1_img" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY3ViGrCAXpA5v9kUR3QPD6nQxPXWd0ehq1Y4PBCkI-g7_9kJ9mI46hyrjfyhidxuFstNLl0RDAjQXw3d_96HkuQ9SuYftUY0t068XTPVMHL3DFrBVWNHTYvIBJESS5fZv0qqJgEzhYPs/s980-r/second-header.jpg" style="visibility: visible;" width="320" /> <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">She is connected to the things that matter most-- </span><a href="http://lynhilt.com/"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">The Principal's Posts</span></strong></a><br />
<img alt="The Principal's Posts" class="mainlogo-img" height="91" src="http://lynhilt.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/ScreenShot2012-08-15at2.04.04PM.png" width="320" /><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I wish I wrote like him-- </span><a href="http://www.jeffdelp.com/"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Mountains Out of Molehills</span></strong></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you are stuck in a rut and need your thinking stretched, this is a place to go--</span><a href="http://www.pernilleripp.com/"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Blogging Through the Fourth Dimension</span></strong></a>.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If Education is your passion and you think there is such a thing as compassionate leadership then make a habit of checking this blog regularly-- </span><a href="http://www.justintarte.com/"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Life of an Educator</strong></span></a>.<br />
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<br />Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-59268343168826089662012-09-17T11:21:00.000-07:002012-09-17T11:21:45.404-07:00Fail Harder<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br />Are you prepared for things to not work?<br /><br />Fail Harder.<br /><br />Are you willing to put yourself out there?<br /><br />Take the chance to Fail Harder.<br /><br />Wieden + Kennedy is an advertising agency that used 100,000 push-pin tacks to create an art installation in their offices. Check out this short video of it being made: </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xffQBxfKJg"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Fail Harder</span></strong></a><span style="font-size: large;">.<br /><br />Pablo Picasso knew something about failing harder when he stated, </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">I am always doing that which I cannot do, in order that I may learn how to do it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br />Carol Dweck knows it, too, and said,</span> <br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Failure is important to understand because success involves repeated setbacks. If you don't know how to welcome failure, grapple with it and ultimately overcome it, you're not going to develop your potential to the fullest.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Students need to integrate a mistake or setback as <strong><em>not failure</em>.</strong> Rather, just a step closer to realizing the attainment of a task, goal, or dream. We all need to look through a different lens so as to not perceive a setback or mistake as a failure.</span>Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-31843623569068161882012-09-09T11:39:00.000-07:002012-09-09T11:39:01.579-07:00Set Your Intentions #7<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Promise me you'll always remember: You're</span> <span style="font-size: x-large;">braver</span> <span style="font-size: large;">than you believe,</span> <span style="font-size: large;">and</span> <span style="font-size: x-large;">stronger</span> <span style="font-size: large;">than you seem, and</span> <span style="font-size: x-large;">smarter</span> <span style="font-size: large;">than you think. ~ A. A. Milne</span><br />
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Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-68113842226662133232012-07-10T10:21:00.000-07:002012-07-10T10:21:07.868-07:00Creativity is a Habit-Forming Autonomous Verb<span style="font-size: large;">I think that the mind in its purest functioning pursuit is creative. This is something we all possess and have free access to, but is not always encouraged and held up to the light. Hard to believe, but true.</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This slide created by </span><a href="http://teacherleaders.typepad.com/the_tempered_radical/"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Bill Ferriter</span></strong></a> <span style="font-size: large;">gets to the very heart of it:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Why is it, do you think, that creativity is related to as a bad habit? Is it due to not providing enough time to allow it to breathe and find its rhythm? Is it the by-the-book curriculum? Is it the structure of a school day? Is it the people within the school? </span><a href="https://twitter.com/justintarte"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Justin Tarte</span></strong></a><span style="font-size: large;"> tweeted, <em>We want students to be autonomous learners who are taking control of their learning.</em> </span><span style="font-size: large;">To me, this is most apt to happen when students have ample opportunity for exploration and ownership of creating. This takes a substantial amount of time and time seems to be a commodity that is being whittled away. Still, in some places there are educators who are devoted to making it come to life and I'd like to hear from them. Please share with all of us your role in how it is being cultivated.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Krissy Venosdale wrote this about how, at times, our good intentions are less then mindful in the way we relate to students:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You need to read this. I said to. Do this first. Follow this pattern. This is the way to do it. Here is the right way. Sit still. Complete the front side. Number your paper. Do as I say. Raise your hand before speaking. Put your name at the top. I give this a 95%. Follow the classroom rules. Be engaged. Keep your eyes on your page. Choose A, B, or C. I talk, you learn. You’re following my lesson plan. My classroom.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Little words. Tiny phrases. Together? They create fences that keep our kids in one safe spot where learning and exploring become all about what we say to do. Fences that keep kids from learning. (Here is her entire post, </span><a href="http://venspired.com/?p=3078"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Learning Because The Gates Are Wide Open</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;">).</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Krissy puts forth a timely example of how we can be a wet blanket to creativity and autonomous learning. What are your daily practices that do not fence in students? Let us call it Free Range Learning. Again, I'd be grateful to hear from you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5BGlNBnlpPA&feature=player_embedded&utm_source=buffer&buffer_share=878e9"><strong>Milton Glaser</strong></a> says this about his creative philosophy:</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There's no such thing as a creative <em>type</em>. As if creative people can just show up and make stuff. As if it were just that easy. I think people need to be reminded that creativity is a <em>verb</em>, a very time consuming verb. It's about taking an idea in your head, and transforming that idea into something real. And that's going to be a long and difficult process. If you're doing it right, it's going to feel like work.</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: large;">Consider a time when you had a moment from which sprang a perfect idea-- an a-ha moment. It came seemingly and suddenly out of nowhere. An epiphany. Chances are, you were probably taking a nap, driving your car, waiting at the airport, or in the shower. Some place like that. Milton Glaser had one such moment in a taxi and this is what he sketched on an </span><a href="http://www.moma.org/collection/object.php?object_id=128649"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">envelope</span></strong></a><span style="font-size: large;">. That sketch led to this </span><a href="http://www.miltonglaser.com/the-work/81/new-york-state-i-love-ny-campaign/"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">iconic</span></strong></a><span style="font-size: large;"> design. Those magical moments of insight only take place after lots of tireless effort and concerted thought. It just does not happen in a single moment. Persistence and perseverance always precede it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">To me, his philosophy speaks to the path along which</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">one journeys and not the end product itself. In school, how can we set the stage for students so these bursts of insight can happen organically? How can we shift the perception so that creativity is viewed as an admirable, expected habit? Please comment. I'd like to hear from you.</span><br />
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<br />Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-66954253037997413002012-06-22T06:54:00.000-07:002012-06-22T08:05:43.821-07:00Summer Reading Bundle for Educators: Keep Reading, Continue Learning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">It has been quite a while since my last bundle of books. So, with Summer upon us here are the latest books to get you reading.</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkAxLhCF5uds8FjS1DCBaqHD0Y5T4tvEJO0pcF7fiITG1HpXjLibVYQ36FHWCfEy7XwuOgxk8rU-QQ5JvgHZJ_PGRHU9xSfJQndyjwHkr8XNIdiBsPNLZlJg8jtNq73mp0UQ_4gdiHT34m/s1600/35921632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkAxLhCF5uds8FjS1DCBaqHD0Y5T4tvEJO0pcF7fiITG1HpXjLibVYQ36FHWCfEy7XwuOgxk8rU-QQ5JvgHZJ_PGRHU9xSfJQndyjwHkr8XNIdiBsPNLZlJg8jtNq73mp0UQ_4gdiHT34m/s200/35921632.jpg" width="132" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">My <em>Professional Choice</em> is </span><a href="http://www.sensorysmarts.com/"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Raising a Sensory Smart Child</span></strong></a><span style="font-size: large;"> by Lindsey Biel and Nancy Peske. </span><span style="font-size: large;">If you are a school counselor then this is a must read. Sensory Processing Disorder can vary so much from person to person. Proprioceptive. Vestibular. Sensory Registration. Sensory Defensiveness. And on and on. These kids are in every school and it has been my experience that we are not proactively accommodating and advocating for them with fidelity. It is my opinion that the school counselor is the go-to person for this type of information and needs to have a strong reservoir of knowledge from which to draw and collaborate effectively with the school community. This book is a wonderful resource and will make a significant difference in enhancing your awareness and understanding. (And this book, too-- </span><a href="http://out-of-sync-child.com/"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">The Out of Sync Child-- Recognizing and Coping with Sensory Processing Disorder</span></strong></a><span style="font-size: large;"> by Carol Kranowitz).</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKeYOd6x-JmmBoOL3DsU2dVX2G6V54cw6BCdD79B8yPO-qmdy8B8syN57qkAoJcoZxHWlXkbUsx9RKPgQWnlDd5vWyfREd2xchlCr6rATRRM-M1h5t46LXUzggeDuy3fEZCtu6b3epInfC/s1600/dandelion-wine-book-cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKeYOd6x-JmmBoOL3DsU2dVX2G6V54cw6BCdD79B8yPO-qmdy8B8syN57qkAoJcoZxHWlXkbUsx9RKPgQWnlDd5vWyfREd2xchlCr6rATRRM-M1h5t46LXUzggeDuy3fEZCtu6b3epInfC/s200/dandelion-wine-book-cover.jpg" width="145" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">Every summer I make an effort to read authors that I probably should have read, but never got around </span><span style="font-size: large;">to it. With the recent death of Ray Bradbury, I decided for my <em>Personal Choice</em> to read a couple of his--Dandelion Wine and Fahrenheit 451. I just started </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dandelion-Wine-Ray-Bradbury/dp/0380977265"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Dandelion Wine</span></strong></a><span style="font-size: large;"> and it is a magically wonderful tribute to childhood summers. Read this and it will set your mind right for the entire summer.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNDLtqxzm-_7oMLqxAJe0-P0OBIU0j3Bo58l2ERFBOa-5PK8kKdneOGT6xQHt-6y7VlcKo_h7VoX2Vht8FD7JtMwHos5RUXSBl6KLl4CV4BfnWdPbacnWXY7xw63_7BYRAC9V_qjVqZf8e/s1600/9780061726552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNDLtqxzm-_7oMLqxAJe0-P0OBIU0j3Bo58l2ERFBOa-5PK8kKdneOGT6xQHt-6y7VlcKo_h7VoX2Vht8FD7JtMwHos5RUXSBl6KLl4CV4BfnWdPbacnWXY7xw63_7BYRAC9V_qjVqZf8e/s200/9780061726552.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">My <em>Kid Lit</em> pick this time around is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/This-Plus-That-Little-Equations/dp/0061726559"><strong>This Plus That: Life's Little Equations</strong></a> by Amy Krouse Rosenthal. This author looks at things we see each and every day and turns them into something fresh and vibrant. And always with a little bit wonder and a smidgen of whimsy. Click <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k48S_jUHzC4"><strong>here</strong></a> for a book trailer. I read this book as part of a classroom lesson and then asked the students to create </span><span style="font-size: large;">their own equations. Here are a few: Problem + School Counselor = Solution, Good Book + Free Time = Great Adventure, and Hard Work + Determination = Goal Accomplished. Give it a try with your students. I guarantee you will be showered with creativity and original thinking.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As always, over to the left are the links to these books-- <strong>Books To Inspire</strong>.</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy. Keep reading. Keep learning.</span><br />
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<br /></div>Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-65869721069001756972012-06-02T07:19:00.000-07:002012-06-02T07:19:06.319-07:00The Learning Shoe<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">My friend, Stephen Hurley, over at </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://teachingoutloud.org/"><strong><em>Teaching Out Loud</em></strong></a> put out this fun, thought-provoking post about what type of shoe most represents your style of teaching.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I briefly commented, but thought it deserved a post all of its own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So here it is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hiking boots most represent my style as a counselor educator.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">They are good for Exploring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a lot to see, experience, and learn out there in the world… and it is usually off the beaten path.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For me, there is nothing like getting out to nature to ratchet up self-discovery, as well as the discovery of what life has to offer. I’ve discussed in the past the importance of being comfortable with feeling uncomfortable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Making oneself vulnerable is OK. Taking acceptable risks definitely gets one out of a well-worn rut and can be growth-producing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hiking boots allow you to put yourself out there and be open to that sort of experience. With a bit of effort there are opportunities and possibilities there for the taking.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">They are also durable, reliable, steady…. made for the long haul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hiking boots are usually not swift of foot, but built to get you through the tough moments. They are meant to get messy, scuffed-up, and dirty. Hiking boots provide Support to get you up the tough climbs and down the steep descents, too. Life and learning is a lot like this.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">A good hike in this type of shoe cleanses the palette of the mind and puts things in perspective for objective and meaningful Understanding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes learning can be confounding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes we need to reframe our thought process. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From confusion comes the A-ha moments. My preferred shoe of choice for educating does just that.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Exploration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Support. Understanding. Effort. This is my approach to teaching.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I just may need to start wearing hiking boots to school!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">But what about you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What is the shoe to represent your style of teaching?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(By the way, Stephen’s <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>are <a href="http://teachingoutloud.org/2012/05/30/the-teacher-wears-prada-if-the-shoe-fits/"><strong>Hush Puppies</strong></a></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">).</span></span></div>Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-28784095492098102422012-05-09T06:22:00.000-07:002012-05-09T06:22:27.507-07:00Learning Is A Leap Of Faith<span style="font-size: large;">This short video piece is so awesome I can't help but smile. Maybe you've seen it. It's this girl about to ski jump for the first time. She is at the top peering down trying to talk herself through this scary, uncertain moment.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Think about it. Significant practice and effort led her to this precipice. Now, here she is.... </span><span style="font-size: large;">Can she do it? Will she do it? What is holding her back? What will allow her to go through with the experience?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Watch this: As she says, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=ebtGRvP3ILg"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Here goes something, I guess.</span></strong></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Did you notice the voices in the background of the people </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">teaching and coaching her through this leap of faith? Encouraging, not hollering. Patiently talking her through the jump. Totally supportive of her endeavor at this place and in this moment. To me it is beautiful to behold.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For the past few years I have engaged in a lot of thought and discussion about getting comfortable with feeling uncomfortable, the growth mindset, and the process of learning. To me and my way of thinking, this video encapsulates that: being flexible and fluid rather than rigid and stuck; being open and willing to take that step into the unknown, as well as nurturing and being fully present for someone.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hopefully, we have all had such moments. The first (and only) time I went scuba diving was one. Watching my kids ride a bike for the first time was another. The moment college algebra equations finally clicked was yet another. How about you? What leap of faith learning experiences have you encountered?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I believe we all need to hoot and holler (like the girl in the video) over our accomplishments! Let me hear you!</span>Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-33255715370757727242012-05-02T12:35:00.001-07:002012-05-02T12:44:08.592-07:00Filter<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJxIKN2zX0m9W6hgq1Mm0OlUy2P2vc_3H7kJ1zN2zwgE276O9ftjo4p2QnMQPpyVrUdd0_xzYm8BRkWELPLi65frftRIucRU_rNBRGaSGhm9NM-D0naEKF4f3-2-Lsry4cB-uWoZMinQz/s1600/i+love+my+voice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJxIKN2zX0m9W6hgq1Mm0OlUy2P2vc_3H7kJ1zN2zwgE276O9ftjo4p2QnMQPpyVrUdd0_xzYm8BRkWELPLi65frftRIucRU_rNBRGaSGhm9NM-D0naEKF4f3-2-Lsry4cB-uWoZMinQz/s320/i+love+my+voice.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Filter. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">That is the word I chose to reflect the way I want to live in 2012. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Why Filter? Some foods have been giving me wicked headaches and I decided it was high time to be mindful of what I put in my body. Food-related headaches were wiping me out.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I pondered this I also decided to Filter what/how I thought and the manner in which I spoke as well. Sometimes I find myself fretting over that which I have no control. Other times I found myself wanting to be more mindful with how my words were being received by others. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Filter seemed to be a good fit for the word I selected to emulate in the the year 2012.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, as Fate would have it, just as I began to acquire a comfort level with my blogging voice and used that as a springboard to Twitter and picked Filter as my word for 2012 you will never guess what happened next. I was diagnosed with left vocal fold paralysis. I literally lost my voice. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">No one wants to hear the word paralysis applied to oneself. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Not ever. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This got my attention.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">On the day of my diagnosis, I came home to find this on my NPR feed: </span><a href="http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2012/02/09/146655559/how-my-voice-went-silent?sc=fb&cc=fp"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>How My Voice Went Silent.</strong></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What a coincidence. The same day I learn of my left vocal fold paralysis an NPR reporter writes an article about his own diagnosis with it. Small world. The timeliness of reading his article was uncanny and helped so much to realize I was not the only one to experience such a thing.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />Naturally, </span><span style="font-size: large;">going though something like this provided the opportunity for me to learn about myself very quickly. There is no ignoring or putting it off for later. One thing I learned-- no matter how I try, I do not think I truly appreciate something until I no longer have it. Everyone is probably like that. I took my voice for granted-- the sound of it, the laugh, a whisper, a shout, everything... </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Another thing I learned, crazy as it seems, is I did not worry over it. It did not cause me to be afraid. Nor did I have any anger regarding it. I accepted it from the get-go. That definitely helped me to move forward.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My word for the year is playing a part in my Voice coming back. </span><span style="font-size: large;">I Filtered-out the words and patterns of habit that could be unhealthy and negative and Filtered-in thoughts and beliefs that were positive and healing. It is definitely an on-going challenge, but one that is making me better. Isn't that what it is all about? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What is your word for 2012 and how is it progressing thus far for you? If you have yet to select your word I encourage you to do so. It could make all the difference.</span>Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-34379362306552178862012-04-22T07:32:00.000-07:002012-04-22T07:32:19.162-07:00Make Your Day<span style="font-size: large;">Watch this short film, </span><a href="http://cainesarcade.com/"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Caine's Arcade</span></strong></a><span style="font-size: large;">. It will make your day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Creativity. <span style="font-size: small;">(check)</span> Imagination. <span style="font-size: small;">(check)</span> Passion. <span style="font-size: small;">(check)</span> Engaging. <span style="font-size: small;">(check)</span> Charming. </span><span style="font-size: small;">(check)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The story of Caine and his arcade has spread like wild fire. If you have yet to watch this, please do. It is something to behold. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">To me, Caine is the epitome of the saying, "Do what you like, like what you do."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy. I am off to buy a Fun Pass.</span>Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-56861328079622561962012-03-10T10:46:00.000-08:002012-03-10T10:46:26.138-08:00Set Your Intentions #6<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The sea is dangerous and its storms terrible, but these obstacles have never been sufficient reason to remain ashore...unlike the mediocre, intrepid spirits seek victory over those things that seem impossible...it is with an iron will that they embark on the most daring of all endeavors...to meet the shadowy future without fear and conquer the unknown.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> ~Ferdinand Magellan</span>Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-15001986584921540062012-03-01T08:21:00.003-08:002012-07-16T05:25:59.591-07:00Flashbacks to Good Grief<span style="font-size: large;">I've been devoting some time connecting my dots as a Counselor by reflecting on the path that has taken me to this point. If you have missed the previous posts here they are-- </span><a href="http://thiscounselorsjourney.blogspot.com/2012/02/flashbacks-to-new-counselor.html"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Flashbacks to a New Counselor</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> and </span><a href="http://thiscounselorsjourney.blogspot.com/2012/02/flashbacks-to-pirate-counselor.html"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Flashbacks to the Pirate Counselor</strong></span></a><span style="font-size: large;">.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>Flashback</strong></em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><em>Shock and numbness has found its way to you as a consequence of these deaths which have occurred within the school community. At the same time a hyper-awareness and heightened sensitivity is also present. The impact of the deaths, the media scrutiny, and high degree of need by the student body/community is overwhelming.</em></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Words to live by to the Rookie Counselor Me:</em> </strong><em>Death and Dying. There is no preparation for this. Not really. You'll read plenty of books on the subject. You will go to workshops about critical incident stress management and attend conferences about suicide and the like.</em></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><em>People are going to die. You will genuinely try to support the people they leave behind. Mostly you need to be there for them. Listen. Let their voices be heard. It is important that they feel as if you truly hear their story of grief.</em></span><br />
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<em><span style="font-size: large;">I think you will know what to do by the feel and instinct of the circumstances. You will need to measure the moment, for t</span><span style="font-size: large;">his is a sensitive subject. Every person, every family has their own beliefs on how it should be dealt with and what customs to follow. Some do so very privately. Others quite publicly. Some want support. Others insulate themselves from it. There is no one way. No correct way. Just the personal way; the way that finds you and nestles close to your heart.</span></em><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">All this leads to what this post is really meant to convey--Self Care. Caring for Yourself is all about You. And, if you think about it, that is about the last thing a Counselor does day-in and day-out while in the school house. Self-care is easier to do then you may think and yet harder to realize when you need to do it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, if you are reading this I need your assistance. I would like you to help all our Future Selves. I have created a google document where you may list what works for you. Consider sharing your passions, that which gives you joy, activities which recharge you or puts you in the Flow (<span class="st"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mihaly_Csikszentmihalyi#Flow"><strong>Mihaly Csikszentmihaly/Flow</strong></a>). Anything that helps you care for yourself.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is the Google Document: <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XaYplGnDqSBh2DAGZnbvUH8L49fs5tVzF1scuWUyiew/edit#"><strong>Self-Care for Your Future Self</strong></a>. Thanks for your support and contribution. I am curious to learn what self-care looks like for you.</span>Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-44621250887161778462012-02-22T03:20:00.000-08:002012-02-22T03:20:45.281-08:00Flashbacks to The Pirate CounselorThe acclaimed director, George Roy Hill gave a dressing-down to Paul Newman for feeling sorry for himself and for believing that he was not worthy of his lot in life. Mr. Newman lamented that if it were not for luck he'd be a nobody. Mr. Hill told him, "Some people sit by the window all day and watch Luck pass by."<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Opportunity. Fate. Luck.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, really, it is not just luck. It takes Fate. The right place at the right time. Circumstances and Opportunity, too. And you need to seize the moment. Otherwise, Luck <strong>will</strong> just pass right by your window.</span><br />
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<em><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Flashback</span></strong></em><br />
<em><span style="font-size: large;">It is the last day of your first school year as a counselor and a parent drops by your office. She is about to ask if you know anyone who'd like to be a counselor on a sail boat to work with adjudicated youth. No pressure or anything, but You better do this!</span></em><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Malcolm Gladwell has a pretty good theory laid out in his book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Outliers-Story-Success-Malcolm-Gladwell/dp/0316017922"><strong>Outliers</strong></a>, that it takes 10,000 hours to master your craft. It requires innate talent, to be sure. But it also requires no small amount of opportunity, luck, and practiced purposeful repetition. Mr. Gladwell delineates the timeline of Bill Gates and The Beatles as they did their thing hour after hour after hour for years at a time. It is a story worth reading.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Words to live by to The Rookie Counselor Me:</strong> <em>This seems kind of daunting when you are just beginning. But, if you have found your thing, then you do it because you love it. It will drive you and provide you with profound meaning. It is your little Acorn of Purpose. If it is what you really want to do with your life then it is going to grow and prosper and thrive.</em></span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Flashback</span></strong><br />
<em><span style="font-size: large;">You will sail aboard the Francis Crow, namesake for the Englishman who, in 1818, patented the first liquid mariner compass. She's a 40-foot schooner of tight and limited space for 8 kids, a Captain, and a First Mate. (These camps sailed the Chesapeake Bay for week-long excursions.) You will help them learn responsibility, respect, manners, cooperation and teamwork, and on and on. These kids will swab the decks, cook in the galley, clean the head, practice seamanship, and try not to wring each others' neck. There will be boys and girls from age 8 to 17. It will be quite the challenge.</span></em><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I could not have asked for a more organic setting to work on group dynamics and individual behaviors of real concern (BORC). Crammming 11 people in a small space with blazing sun one day and driving rain the next creates a canvas of plentiful drama for a counselor to practice his craft.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This was an invaluable and mighty learning experience for me. I plowed through a lot of those 10,000 hours needed to become versatile in my craft. (During the Summer, 6 days a week, for 5 years). It was fun. It did not feel like 'work'. It required a high degree of concentrated focus, a receptive openness to be in the moment and fully present, and nurturing engagement with these kids from culturally eccletic experiences. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It took Luck. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do not let Luck pass by your window. </span>Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5515547383454528084.post-6211074283834107892012-02-19T05:26:00.000-08:002012-02-19T05:26:11.277-08:00Advocate<div><br />
<small><span style="font-size: large;">Here is a recent Tweet from my Twitter friend Dr. Mason:</span></small><br />
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<small> </small><img alt="Dr. Erin Mason" src="https://twimg0-a.akamaihd.net/profile_images/1433170725/Mason-Headshots_20_normal.jpg" /><span style="color: #0084b4;"> <strong>Dr. Erin Mason</strong> </span><s><span style="color: #66b5d2;">@</span></s><b><span style="color: #0084b4;">ecmmason</span></b></div>Most go into <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/search?q=%23schoolcounseling" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" title="#schoolcounseling"><s><span style="color: #66b5d2;">#</span></s><b><span style="color: #0084b4;">schoolcounseling</span></b></a> bc you already see self as advocate. What's one thing u want to advocate for when ur in the field? <s><span style="color: #66b5d2;">#</span></s><b><span style="color: #0084b4;">CSL521</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have more to write then what the 140-characters Twitter allows. So, here comes a blog post. Usually I ponder and percolate with these things. Not with this. It was kind of there just waiting to be expressed. So, thanks, Dr. Mason.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I segmented this metamorposis into three stages of my own personal development: 1). Reason for entering grad school, 2). Freshly minted mindset of a Graduate, and 3). What I believe at this precise moment.</span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Reason for entering graduate school</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I was disenchanted with what I was doing, coupled with feeling compelled by the desire to have the same impact on kids which I experienced while growing up. I was fortunate to have many adults willing to take me under their wing, kick me in the rear as was sometimes necessary, and encourage me during my formative years. They included a coach, a few teachers, and church leaders.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Upon graduation</strong> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It was genuine, but rather vague: Help prepare young people for a future in which they may experience success. That's it. Not much to go on, I know, but that's it.</span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Today, this is where I believe my advocacy resides</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Intrinsic Motivation</u> - I'd love for kids to do stuff because they want to do it and because it is in their highest interest.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Understanding</u> - I want young people to know about how things --desires, emotions, beliefs-- work, the cause and effect of their thoughts/actions, and what makes their 'self' tick.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Process of Change</u> - Awareness of how changing happens naturally, not forcefully or that which is placed upon you.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Passion</u> - Discover it. Unleash it. Wake up each morning to share all that you have to offer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><span style="font-size: large;">This is how I want to advocate and will do so for each person who I find myself in their midst to the best of my ability. Each young person arrives with a unique life story, baggage they carry with them, limited/extensive background knowledge and experiences. Perhaps, what I strive for is to remove the obstacles from their path so as to clear the way for them to grow unencumbered.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Or, maybe, this captures what I am looking for when I now think of advocacy---a</span><span style="font-size: large;">s Shakespeare so elegantly penned, My heart is ever at your service.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks, Dr. Mason, for nudging me to reflect. Now it is your turn to comment, #CSL521. I'd love to hear from you. Please share your Counselor Mindset at this point in your career!</span>Martyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04695551081526190351noreply@blogger.com6