-Percicles
Sometimes when I check my to-do list, I feel like this quote embodies what I believe. It's not that the to-do list is filled with explanations of the relational tapestry that is woven. Instead, it is in the gaps - between the bulleted items (yes, I actually use bullets and categories) where I feel that I have time to be with people.
Other times, I feel like I need this quote as a reminder. It reminds me that it might be better to have a "to be" list than a "to do" list. It forces me to remember that bath time with Joel and Micah is not a task to check off, but a time to enjoy before they grow too old for it. It causes me to see that the mural my students paint will be faded or painted over some day. It's simply an excuse to spend time with students.
When I re-read this, I start to think that the websites, the murals, the NAU homework - none of that matters quite so much in comparison with hanging out with people, having coffee, engaging in a conversation, gazing into the eyes of my beautiful wife, dancing with Joel and sharing a meal with family.
I grew up in the generation that believed the "big stuff" mattered. We could do anything we wanted if we followed our heart and chased our dreams. I think I'm still figuring out that the biggest stuff doesn't last. Fame is like an iPhone - glamourous and impressive now, but ultimately it will be cheaply forgotten in ten to twenty years. And if you chase it hard enough, like an iPhone it will kill relationships and destroy community.
Taken from despair.com - one of the funniest sites on the internet.
The views of this blog are those of the author only . . . and a few people crazy enough to agree with him. They do not in any way represent those of the Cartwright School District or its staff. If you find something offensive, please e-mail me at socialvoice@gmail.com and we'll engage in a respectful dialogue.
1 comments:
That's a great quote, John. I'm glad that you had your students wrestle with it. I agree with your idea of a "to be" list. I am in the midst of an intense semester of schooling and I feel like I have really missed out on the conversations and life experience of hanging out with people. I very rarely leave campus or our apartment for that matter. It is very difficult to have friends and be a friend when your schedule is full. I've even tried doing less homework and taking a lower grade but there is so much I have to do that my schedule is always full. I'd like to think life will be different after college but I think it will be about the same. Unless I intentionally make time and change my lifestyle I will be pulled away from people, friendships, and community. They will be substituted with long work days, more possessions, entertainment, or more full schedules.
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