Over the course of my teaching career I have come across many different people and have worked in many different educational areas and towns. I have learnt something from all of it. Sometimes the lessons were learnt long after the fact but, learn and grow from it I did. So I’d like to ask you all a question and, please, take the time to truely reflect and give some time to think about your answer.
What do you do to truely be apart of your community? Your work community, hobby groups, your kids sports or school or any other pursuits you are involved in.
In recent years I have released how important it is to give back. To give back professional, to my children’s school, and within my larger community.
Some years ago I was asked to join my kids school P&C (parents and citizens). What I discovered was that participating and giving my time to this organisation, gave me a great sense of connectedness, purpose and also of comradery. I, with other people who I never meet or knew before joining the P&C, were making a difference for all the children at school. A person can only feel that deep satisfaction and purpose when they freely give. Now don’t get me wrong, there were times when I didn’t want to go to the meetings or was busy and just didn’t want to! But, I was so glad I pushed myself and I know helped make difference.
Within my teaching career, I have realised how important it is to give back to colleagues and undergraduates. As much as I felt at times that I was going it alone, I always had older teachers with a wealth of knowledge giving me a simple guiding hand. That could have been from a small comment of praise, a hint on what to do or where to find information or just listening to me. I realise now that I am becoming that teacher with a wealth of experience and knowledge and it is my turn to provide that guiding hand.
Recent years I always make time to seek out and be that friendly face to new staff, (either graduate or transfer teachers but also auxiliary staff) to my school. it’s not hard to just smile, introduce yourself and ask if they are okay. It makes them feel great and amazingly you also feel great.
I know at times it’s easier to just go home, lay on the couch and scroll on a device. Especially if you are feeling tired, grumpy and stressed. But I can not emphasise how much joining my various communities in a deeper way has helped with all areas of my health. Especially with my mental health! By joining in and giving freely, you never know but you may just make a new friend.
Grateful Wonder 
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