Let it out!

I like to make kids uncomfortable. On purpose.

I hope I’m that teacher with whom kids have a love-hate relationship, because I push them to try things that are hard. But who am I kidding? By the looks of horror on their faces when they are standing in front of the class telling a story, I’m more likely on the hate-hate spectrum. 

I know, public speaking and creative communication isn’t for everyone. I do feel a teensy bit remorseful when I force students who are miserable at it. I have to tell you, though, my heart lands that double-back-flip-with-a-twist when a student breaks past a barrier of self-criticism and LETS. IT. OUT. 

I don’t want to hear what they think I want to hear either. I want what is unique to them. I want one student to tell me all about anime, because she’s been drawing Dragon Ball Z since she was in diapers. I want to know why one student is able to do backflips while tossing axes. Those topics don’t interest me at all, but when I see through their eyes, I’m enthralled! 

Everyone has a story to tell. My prayer for you is that you know how important your own voice and your own experience is to the rest of us. You have truths the rest of us need to see through your eyes. 

Let it out!