Preparation

A close friend asked me last week, "Want to practice with me for your interview? I'm really good."

And she is, really good. She's closed the deal on every interview/job she's aimed for. And I believe it. This of course, makes me feel horrified at the idea of having her listen to me stumble through a mock interview. I love her but I declined. I decided to go about finding the words for tomorrow the way I usually do - I read my old journals. It took me a while but I found two entries that will guide me through the interviews - I think all the other answers will work themselves out.

September 6, 2008
Falling in Love
"If you can convince a child you love him (or her), you can teach that child anything." (1987) Avi

The first week (or rather, three days) of school have been fantastic. Absolutely wonderful. The students and I made a connection. I felt it. I felt love. Two years with them? Ok!

I saw engagement, community, and curiosity. I really want to help them become themselves, find out who they are, and find healthy ways to "be". And make friends. And become compassionate people. And become young intellectuals.

June 6, 2009
Stephanie
She greeted me at the door with:

"I'm graduating Ms!" and threw me a huge hug. I think she meant the hug and knew that I was truly happy for her.

Next year, that's what I want to cultivate: caring.

Unconditional caring.
Caring that is academic and personal.
Caring that can last through the good and the bad behavior.

I will practice how to care, how to provide care consistently, in the right way, at the right time. It isn't something that comes naturally to me actually. But I think I'm getting closer to the answer.

I read all of "Sahara Special" by Esme Raj Cordell this morning between 7-9am. It's inspired me to take on this teaching again with love and nothing less.