First Lines, First Contact, First Impressions (91)

Quintessential quotes. “Do not ask what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” -“I keep my ideals, because in spite of everything I still believe that people are really good at heart.” -“Knowing what must be done does away with fear.” And “I have a dream.” They move us. 

These quotes inspire us. Drive humanity forward. Push us to be better. These quotes have been spoken many times- the first being the most profound. From the mouths of these great men and women came hope.

In this current situation, far less dire than many that have come before it, we are afraid. We are myopic at times. We are exhausted. Frazzled. Many losing their optimism. But we must keep our front lines fortified.

Our first lines of defense strong. Our first interchanges optimistic. Today, I went through my bookshelf and took out a few books. I have a lot- I am an avid reader.

I chose some of the opening lines- the first set of words in these books. The sentences that launched a novel. The hooks that lured me in. They are very much relevant and ironic in fact. They inspired me to write about the world we live in.

And it made me see that, as much as society has evolved, as much as technology has surpassed anything most of these writers could imagine- we are still conquering many of the same obstacles.

A screaming comes across the sky. —Thomas Pynchon, Gravity's Rainbow (1973)

This invasion came over from a distant land or so it seemed. For awhile we felt safe, like it was never going to reach our shores in mass. Yet, it did. A reminder that our world is global. We are connected via air, land and sea.

It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen. —George Orwell, 1984 (1949)

As we enter April it feels like a curse. Like a Friday the 13^th evil plot. Superstitious I am not. But, being cooped up inside, now until May 4^th- the force does not feel like it is with me. It feels like we are under siege.

Ships at a distance have every man's wish on board. —Zora Neale Hurston, Their Eyes Were Watching God (1937)

We see glimpses of hopes, that there will be an end in sight. But we know the world will never be the same. This is the Titanic event, the Black Swan of this new century. We will endure but we will be distanced, and this will leave a mark. Society is going to be different.

I had the story, bit by bit, from various people, and, as generally happens in such cases, each time it was a different story. —Edith Wharton, Ethan Frome (1911)

This quote speaks for itself. Find reliable resources.

In a hole in the ground there lived a Hobbit- J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit (1937)

We are all Baggins’ these days. Hopefully safe in our Shire. Yet, we crave adventure like Bilbo. We will fight orcs, goblins and Gollum’s in our minds. But if we find our quest, gather our collective, we will conquer them.

The year 1866 was signalized by a remarkable incident, a mysterious and inexplicable phenomenon, which doubtless no one has yet forgotten. - Jules Verne, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (1870)

This incident Covid-19, Corona Virus- what ever name you choose to package it- is simply mind boggling. We are experiencing a life changing alteration to our mindset. We will never see the world, the same again. Now even the smallest of invaders will be remembered on a large scale- the scale of world wars and natural disasters. It will be one of many inexplicable phenomenon to come. It is the moment, hopefully, that humanity pauses and comes together. To cooperate to solve the problems of today on a global scale.

“Everyone my age remembers where they were and what they were doing when they first heard about the contest.” – Ernest Cline -Ready Player One (2011)

First’s are important. These opening phrases leapt off the page. They are memorable and inspiring. Mindfulness and positivity will create first impressions that will last long after the distancing has eased up a bit. Rudeness and trolling will also leave an impression- that those who are behaving badly, will not shake any time soon.

Respond not react.

Believe in humanity- we are basically good. There are those who taint the initial reaction. They halt our first response; we are unsure of how to. It shocks us. So, leave those behind and find those who instantly- you know have a mindful presence. 

Follow those who spread joy and camaraderie. Ignore those that spread fear and isolation.

Be there for one another. For after this first- 21^st century pandemic, when the dust settles- it will be those that left a positive impact that will be remembered fondly. Build your community- they will be the voice of reason, the first line of chapters in your story.

“You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them."

Tale as Old as Time (89)

Not Beauty and the Beast exactly. More like good and evil. Positive and negative. Yin and yang. Opposites in constant conflict, repelling, attracting, canceling each other out. Atomic, microscopic, macroscopic, universe sized collisions and avoidance. Nothing is ever truly settled. Nothing is every really balanced. Momentum, inertia, velocity.

There are times when encounters have great magnitude. Earth shaking, concussions that leave deep marks of disfigurement. Even after the wound heals and the scar has become familiar, it hurts. A shadow pain pulsates. But infrequently. Time does not heal all wounds. In fact sometimes it enhances them. There are always pocks and marks that remind us.

There have always been battles of will. Inner torment of guilt and rage that lead to betrayal or deception. A new shiny desire has often lead the most admirable of humans to do unthinkable things. We hold a certain discrepancy- for these collisions never make impact without damage. It might be insignificant at percussion but the waves of energy are never squelched.

Energy is colliding, transforming, never creating or destroying- mingling and bonding in a consistency uncontrollable. We can harness parts of it. Direct it. Funnel it. Use it as we wish. But energy is everywhere- it is literally the giver of life. Physics the melody, biology the harmony. Each requiring the raw essence of spontaneity.

So here we are engulfed with a smash, strike, slam of a wallop with a microscopic invader. The macro again meets the micro. Yet on a magnitude so vast it literally hit every corner of the globe. Contact begets failure. Connection propagates. Isolation sires prevention. But it also stirs up the energy pool.

What we had forgotten rises to the surface.

The drudge that remained bottom feeders are now chomping sea weed in the sunlight. Every form of energy is swirling- innovation, ingenuity, despair, boredom, frustration, anger, resentment, fear. This in turn, recycles the bond, renews the juxtaposition of positive and negative, healthy and ill, friendliness and rudeness.

We are on a path, set down before us from the reactionary attitude of energy. Relentless and unforgiving. It has its orbit, its pattern, its rotation and trajectory. It spreads- ebbs and flows. It will make contact. It will conquer. For energy always does. It is both destroyer and life-giver. Tale as old as time.

Atoms meet, molecules bond, viruses and bacteria spread, energy converges, builds, transfers. Sometimes we get side-swiped by its wave. Other times we get consumed by it. These days it is bombarding us from every angle. Every emotion, every physical side-effect entangling us. We feel like we are sinking, downward into the abyss.

But, alas, tale as old as time- the same energy that created the stars, the universe, the planet and all her beauty- lifts us. Generates our sense of self. Builds bridges of communication. Some collisions destroy while others create. Creation is upon us. What happens after the dust settles is up to us.

There is a Lot of Kindness Too (87)

There is so much talk of irrational behavior, overload and frustration. But there is also a lot of kindness out there. A lot of people volunteering, donating supplies and sending out positive communication.

Many shelves might be empty in retail stores but people are still looking out for one another.

Here are a few positive stories from my son- who four days a week is working at a grocery store.

Yesterday he was bagging groceries for a Vietnam Vet- who after my son helped him to his car and unloaded his groceries for him, said to him- "Thank you for your service." my son said, "What?, Not at all." He smiled at the man and replied. "Thank you for YOUR service. I am just bagging groceries." The man replied- "You are giving back to the community, it is service. Thank you for coming to work and helping us." He tipped him a dollar. My son didn't wan't to take it but he said, "Please, for me." So he did.

My son said he teared up. He had never thought of it as service, just a job.

My son was walking through the store after his break. They were unloading a shipment of paper products. A man walked up to him and said "I see there is paper products, finally." My son replied, yup. The man said "Aren't you going to take some? He said I don't have enough money. It's a luxury item."

The man came up to him a few minutes later, after my son had returned to work. "You deserve a luxury, Thank you for coming to work and helping us." He handed him a 12 pack of toilet paper- receipt included. My son was flabbergasted. "Thank you so much." He replied "It's the simple acts of kindness that matter. You deserve an act of kindness."

So amidst the uncertainty and I must admit a bit of rudeness and self-preservation- there is kindness and gratitude. Every act of mindfulness and kindness matters, like I said in my post yesterday. Here are just two examples.

"Stop and Smell the Roses" Antiquated Notion, or Forgotten Awareness (85)

When we look up from our phones, reconnect with the world around us, we see the most amazing things. I saw this on the way back from Albuquerque.

Actually look at things as you pass by, there are some pretty fun signs. I saw this down the street from my house, today.

I was in the passenger seat today, just looking out at the world. Heeding the words "Stop and smell the roses." By "Pause, look and the world will share with you the most humorous and beautiful stories."

A 360 degree turn and the sky, the same gorgeous sky that has always graced this planet, this location, was singing pinks and blues. Reminding me to just breathe.

Finally, I literally stopped to "Smell the roses." Hidden in the corner of my yard- this peach beauty. She whispered "Stay outside awhile. Let's play hide n seek. Come find me."

Then the afternoon sun eclipsed through and warmed my skin. Replenishing me with Vitamin D. It was time to step inside and reflect. Reconnect. Re-energized for the day's events, most of which will be inside.

But, outside has the most amazing stories to tell. Especially the clouds, they are the loudest for me.

All we have to do is pause, breathe and listen.

First Day of Distance Learning (83)

It was definitely different. Today was the first time in two weeks where I was actually communicating back and forth with my students. All day long, they were asking questions and I was answering them directly. We were quick and succinct in the morning. Then throughout the day, we started getting more familiar, telling some jokes. We loosened up.

I decided NOT to use Zoom or any other video. Just Canvas and email. I wanted to make sure we had the fewest of obstacles: they just started using Legends of Learning, StemScopes and lessons on Brain Pop. So adding another aspect seemed overwhelming.

Learning began. Our district sent out required modules. We must use these as a district. But, since I have 4 GT courses, these classes I can tweak and add some things. My other two have to be ONLY what the district has sent for us to use.

We are in uncharted waters. Like at the edge of an old timey map- dragons and sea monsters about. But, we will adjust. We will reconnect. We will get through any kinks and hurdles and then we can really get into science and start having some fun.

Communication frequent: I sent out a video yesterday and Friday I will share a podcast, a sum up of the weeks information. For us it is catastrophic events. A fun unit in which we usually have great conversations- I don't want to lose that aspect of the unit. So lots of podcasts and student created video's to come.

Sitting behind my computer, in my PJ's and listening to my meditation playlist has been calming. But, I miss my students. I miss my classroom. Some states have cancelled school the rest of the school year. As of yet, we have not. But, I anticipate its arrival. Then distance learning becomes even more important, critical to the social interaction every student needs.

Hunker down and lean in. This might be a bumpy week. But, afterwards, once the dust has settled and the asphalt solid- it is going to be the new normal for awhile. Stay open-minded, patient and eager. Eager to connect and distance simultaneously. It can be done. First day of distance learning- few hiccups. I couldn't see a smile but I could send plenty of cheer. I think a good podcast tonight might lift some spirits.

As Picard would say "Engage."

Anxiety Blues, Depression Gray's, Yellow's Creep In (81)

Anxiety Blues

Quarantine-imposed isolation. We are living in a world where most people are voluntarily distancing. While others are ignoring the diagnosis and are behaving as if we are living in a state of normalcy. 

If you turn on the news, it is vast in opinion- extremist. Some stories are based on fact, research. Others are written by fear-mongers, trying to put more faintheartedness, in an already concerned nation. This topsy-turvy, pell-mell situation, is not going away anytime soon.

Blues and Grays in outlook are ramped. Sunny skies seem like an illusion. The yellows of contentment seem abated by the solemn shades of uncertainty and gloom. It is spring, but it feels like a season we have never experienced before. 

The leaves are on the trees, flowers beginning to bloom, yet the hazy cover of lazaretto is obscuring hope for many. I have faith, yet somehow, I lack amber and chrome.

Our emotional color wheel is going to continue to spin. Mine is. We are going to be not just, physically under attack, from an invisible enemy, but also fighting a deluge of despair. We might not even notice right away.

 It took me an instant to feel fatigued. But it took a few weeks, for my spectrum to become dulled, muted. The crispness of lilac is now darkened luster. Still with blight. Noiseless and insulate.

Depression Gray’s

We are so focused on the virus, rightfully so. The fast, refocuses us, away from the slow. The methodical. The silent destroyer of spirit. We are not looking at the despondency- this is why so many are in denial. 

This is why so many are ignoring the inoculation measures. Science can confuse. Statistics can blind. Far away circumstance, often refuses to allow some, to think closer to home.

Fear distributes many feelings and this fervor is undeniably causing hiccups in the process of containment. Saffron sparkles keep our eyes fixated on what we want. Normalcy, going outside, being with friends and family, traveling. 

Yet, somber heather sneaks in behind. Tapping us on the shoulder. We do not know what it wants. So, we turn a blind eye. The shimmer is much more appealing than the dingy.

When we lie down for slumber, this silvery, leaden weight, undisclosed to some- burrows above us. Lingering under our hope. We listen, we process, we cope. We try to make sense of the science, statistics, predictions. 

We lie awake, befuddled in our heavy, beryl bubble. We see its edge we look through its opaque barrier. It feels like we were forced into a densely approaching fog.

No end, no beginning- just a cold mist. A cumbersome, awkward duvet. We want so desperately to kick it off, stomp it to the floor. But we are so cold. Shivering in uncertainty. Everyone around us is carrying this same ballast, so we choose to endure ours. 

We stay noiseless, insulate, leaden. But we have to share our concerns. They may feel baseless, even gratuitous- but they are very much real. They have shade, hue and complexion. They are complicated and confusing because this new normal is the same.

The Pastels of Restlessness

To me pastels evoke a sense of rebirth. They are not shiny and arrogant. But subtle and provoking. They seem innocuous, but they are alluring. We want to keep things light, simple- but in this time of restlessness and agitation- the pale seems invasive. Too many voices, shouting their point of view. Nobody listening because the din is so distracting. Pinks and lavenders mixing into a loud fuchsia.   

The cloudless day has become muddled with articulation and surrounded by speculation. What we want is clarification. But we trudge empty, lilt forward, into the spectral nuance and perplexity. Yellow is the color of health, so they say. 

I am physically in the pink, as the saying goes. I am not ill or infirm of body. But mentally, I can feel it- the slow-moving lethargy, that leads to anxiety, depression and guilt.

Guilt that I am not doing more. Guilt that my family is safe, and we have enough food. That I am an educator, not a small business owner and my job is secure, for now. That I, thank goodness, can’t imagine the upheaval and devastation occurring in other parts of the globe. 

I simply, can’t. I have never been HERE before. We as a global community have never SEEN the likes of this before.

I want so much to be able to fully understand the complexity of this. But my mind forces me, into an escape mode. I mentally shut down. This sends me in a spiral, guilt, fear, anxiety, depression. Depressed that our world is under attack. 

Anxious that my bubble, may be popped, during a battle, in which most of us are unprepared for. Fearful that we will begin to see more empty shelves, less reason to connect. Behavior unbecoming.

Yellows Creep In

Warmth, comfort, and clear familiarity, comes from the security of the blanket of weight. Our slumber laden duvet. The patchwork reality, the new normal, it is hefty- it can be all consuming. But, as with all protective barriers, there is a gap. 

A section where we can peer over towards the horizon and refortify. BUT we have to be willing to pull back the covers, in this dark time, to do so.

Go outside. Look up at the sky, it has not changed. Crumble the dirt in your hands, the ground has not changed. Then of course, wash your hands for 50 seconds with soap. Rinse thoroughly. 

The juxtaposition is intense. The umbra is thick with the constant reminder, something is lurking. We need to combat its density with optimism. We need to climb its solidity with thick boots and protective gear. 

Not just to keep us physically guarded. But also, spiritually and mentally intact. We have to maintain the golden hue of companionship and camaraderie.

We must remember that fear, anxiety and depression harbor large anchors and gigantic fleets of insecurity. They seem still on the gentle waves. But they are tumultuous as they drudge and toil against our foundation. This bay of despair is just as infectious as the physical threat we face as a planet. 

We overcome tragedy with clear eyes, that focus not only on the darker colors, but seek out the glimpses, of the beautiful glow. This illumination finds us, unexpectedly in times of stress. Creating a current, life-giving and hopeful.

We lift our feet and kick, to propel ourselves forward, within it's motion. In cold or warm waters, we remember to swim with the current, not against it. For those who do, often get consumed by the vastness of the sea.

Remember to welcome the yellows, blues, greens and yes- even the fuchsia’s and glorious metallics- they fill in the colorful, nuanced aspects of our color wheel. Our moods. Our outlooks and mindsets. 

We will experience such vast ranges of tint, tinge and tincture. Some will be blinding, others so faint we might miss them. But we have to continue to look beyond our palate and find our balance.

We must articulate our fear, anxiety, depression and restlessness. Because the only way to combat it- is to attack it head on. Stay receptive. Stay mindful. Stay positive. Believe and keep hope close by. It is the buoyancy. It is the consistency that will bring us through the storm.

Hello, Let's Talk Mindfulness (79) Today's On Going Classroom Blog

 Podcast about this activity and My thoughts on mindfulness- PodBean Link (too big to upload, so I guess this is my new platform for podcasting- 

https://mrscjsscienceclass.podbean.com/mf/play/rmvwwv/Hello_Lets_Talk_Mindfulness.mp3

Below is My Post to start the blog- and a few responses. The conversation is on-going and I am checking periodically to answer any of their questions addressed to me.

Hello to everyone. I hope you are all doing alright. I know this is scary time. It is unprecedented for sure. Hopefully you are not obsessed with the news (I was, but had to turn off my electronics) it is hard to just stay focused on what we can control. We tend to obsess over what we can't control. We need to focus on what we can- ourselves. 

I have been keeping up with my mindfulness routine and I thought it might be good for us as a class to keep up with mindfulness as well. More than ever, being isolated with distance learning, we need to stay connected and support one another. I will continue to do some mindfulness questions and send some videos so we can get some grades for this as well. They will be simple, quick mindfulness discussions.

I opened this up for you to be able to respond to one another. PLEASE be respectful and stay on topic. Your instinct will be to get silly- but don't. Just have a meaningful conversation about mindfulness and your strategies to stay patient and calm during this time. Everyone needs to hear from one another and just feel connected as a class. So let's keep it on topic, appropriate and purposeful. I will have discussions for science as well, separate in this same place.

Watch these videos and just- use the following q's as prompts to have discussions (again- NOT silly, keep them appropriate and purposeful.)

1- Why is it important to stay mindful during this time?

2- How can you calm yourself and stay focused when you get stressed?

3- What is the science behind mindfulness and well meditation? Do you ever take a moment to clear your head- not necessarily sit and meditate but just take a quiet moment so think and relax? (that's a type of meditation)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aw71zanwMnY (Links to an external site.)

Headspace | Meditation | Changing Perspective 
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iN6g2mr0p3Q   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iN6g2mr0p3Q (Links to an external site.)

Headspace | Meditation | The Hole in the Road 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQxTUQhVbg4'

 (Links to an external site.)

Here are a few of thew responses:

1: A reason to stay mindful during this crisis is to realize no matter how bad things are, everyone is going through the same thing. Stressing about things will not really accomplish anything.

2: You can do anything that basically distracts you from stress like reading a book, watching movie, play a game, talk with your family, and other things.

3: Meditation can relax mind and increase the "gray area" in the memory, learning, and emotional regulation, while reducing stress at the same time. I don't really meditate, but I do sometimes need to be alone and read a book. This helps me keep control more often.

______________________________________________________________________

1) A lot of people are panicking, and it's important for us to stay calm. Of course we have to follow the guidelines, but drowning ourselves in fear is not going to stop something we can't completely control.

2) I usually listen to music, and I sometimes take some time away from screens to draw and play an instrument. I also try to distract myself from the news.

3) The amygdala decreases gray matter, and your body is more immune. A quiet place doesn't really help me relax,  but instead playing music numbs my mind and everything else around me almost blurs out.     

_______________________________________________________________________

1. It's important to stay mindful because this is an event out of our control so we might as well stay calm. 

2. We can calm ourselves by taking a moment to sit and perhaps not think about anything at all. We can also read, listen to music, do things we enjoy, and hang out with friends (virtually or at the park).

3. According to neuroscience research, mindfulness practices (including meditation) dampen activity in our amygdala and increase the connections between the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. Both of these parts of the brain help us to be less reactive to stressors and to recover better from stress when we experience it.

  

Keep it Simple, Keep it Personal (77)

I have been inundated with free upgrades and try our service for 1/2 off adds. There are so many new technology tools being thrown at us, as educators. Can you blame them? This shift is unprecedented. Teachers who have never delivered on-line content, are now in stress mode. There are so many options. The problem is- our students need access to them. Some students have no Internet, some have limited.

We could try to be super innovative and present the curriculum in a new way- an exciting and unique platform, but is that wise? Students are worried about their grades, about getting behind, about having to learn in a new way. Do we want to add to it? But, do we want to keep them engaged and active as well? How can we balance the new technology with the ease and comfort of routine, when we are distancing away from them?

Simple does not mean boring. Personal is anything but distance? We need to bring the two together. Create a system where every student can still feel a part of the classroom and yet, independent and secure in their new adventure. This is not a setback, but an opportunity to shine. For educators to step out of their pre-packaged, early planned lessons and revamp. Dust off some great ideas, you felt you didn't have time for before.

Now is the time to try something new, within reason. Use the format of familiarity with an edge. Make sure your students hear from you via email or on-line platform, this will reassure them you are still focused on their learning. Then ease in with a few fun activities. Then provide many options and creative ways for them to learn: podcasts, blogs, vodcasts/mini-videos. Let them get problem-solving. Ask- What do you have in your kitchen that can explain this...?

Keep it light and funny. I plan on not focusing on the virus or what changes to society it is bringing. But rather, focusing on mindfulness and some science. Merging the two. This they are used to. Keep the familiar, integrate some nuance. But, they need a strong voice, a familiar voice to guide them academically. Some students may be isolated or quarantined and feel very alone. We need to make sure they know they aren't. This distance won't last forever.

I teach three levels: academic, pre-ap and gifted/talented. Who do you think is emailing me about grades and assignments? Yes, GT students. I am easing their apprehension by telling them I have a plan. We will use the same platform- Canvas and the same style assignments- Discussions and Web-Quests. They will know what to do when our distance learning begins.

The uncertainty is affecting them more than we know. Children pick up on our fears. It is important to reassure them and stay light and humorous, especially if that is what they are used to. Stay true to yourself- they are relying on it. Keep lessons stream-lined and simple. But- creative and thought-provoking. The more we can engage them in learning, the less focused on the uncertainty they will be.

Campus of Personality (74)

A ghost ship. I am on autopilot. Not sure where I am at the moment, but I know where I am not. At home. Long hours. Sleepless nights. Dorms of accomplishments. Quads of missed opportunities- because the thrill of the seek, the drive of the do- is alluring. Sometimes though my campus of personality needs a vacation.

This is not me. I am home.

Blinds shut tight. Comfy duvet. Down pillows. Slumber.

Which hotel is this? Not a one night accommodation. For me- my bed.

I am eager for a new journey- but, the thought of becoming a ghost ship is unbearable. Endless travel, is not on my wish list. I like to be home. I like to be near my family.

Yet, I also want to be a writer. So keeping to my simple plan- excess will not become accessible to me anytime soon.

My campus of personality is not a 'rager' it is not a 'rush week' -simply, because I would rather sit in a quiet library and read. But, I love attending lectures and people watching. I like a quiet social, so to speak.

Does being successful mean, leaving home? Not necessarily.

I think for now, I will write. On my computer, behind my desk. Home sweet home.

How a Microscopic Entity Changed a Macroscopic Reality (73)

It was slow to start. The vibration was a slight rumble. It caused notice for sure, but temporary focus that led to easy distraction. We heard about it, every third or fourth story, then every other story. Then all consuming, it magnified- a gentle reverberation, became a quake. A magnitude irreversible, yet containable. Momentous and significant.

A silent invasion, became loud enough for us to quiver.

Normalcy dissipated, leaving behind a weight, a heaviness, palpable. People are behaving as expected, nervous yet somehow, orderly and ordinary. No one shoving or in a panic. But shelves are empty, toilet paper the first wide spread item to go. Then canned goods, any type of alcohol wipes that remained, after the mass hand-sanitizer acquisition, are long gone. Pasta and dried goods are disappearing now. People are preparing for the hunker.

So many conflicting reports- epidemic, pandemic. Stay home, go to work- support local businesses. Wash your hands, use disinfectant. Close large venues, even smaller ones. Steer clear of hospitals unless it’s an emergency. What are the symptoms? How can you tell if its allergies, the flu or Coronavirus? Not enough tests. Cases increasing, yet with not enough tests- how accurate can reporting be? How sick are people getting?

Cars driving, they seem focused. Days end- starting the weekend, with no where to go. Groceries, entertainment, fuel, travel? What are people doing in large cities? Rural areas? School closures, University closures. Disneyland, The Louvre, Italy. This is universal. This is non-discriminatory. We must support our local communities- if one business fail’s we all lose.

Carrier. Infected. Incubation period. Transmittable. Distance. Withdrawal. No handshakes, no hugs. Yet on national television our president is doing both. Model behavior. Vital, concise information. No patting on the back, delay’s cost lives. But collaboration and cooperation should flatten the curve. Slow the spread. Are we willing to forgo our vacations for the betterment of all? I think so. I believe in people.

It takes a crisis sometimes for people to pause the expansion, of their bubble and to hear what is happening, beyond the protective barrier, of their existence. Myopia is alive and kicking and this has quieted its stomp, at least temporarily. People are listening, then bulk-purchasing. Who needs 10 packages of toilet paper? When many others have none. Why toilet paper?

Why not soap? Why hand-sanitizer and not liquid hand soap? My classroom is full of hand-sanitizer. Yet, I can’t get to it. It’s a very strange level of affairs right now. 46 out of 50 states have individuals who have been infected. If we can slow its rate, we can give doctors and hospitals time to prepare, make sure there are enough beds for those who are sick. We have to see this crisis as not just personal, myopic, but as communal and support one-another- without judgement or fear.

This is the beginning not the end. This situation will bring out the best in people. But also, the worst in people. After the shock and denial wears off, I hope that mindfulness prevails. That people will leave things on the shelves for those who need it. I hope school systems will make sure students are fed, have Internet for learning and keeping up with updates. I hope that this cleanse, this reset, reboot, what ever you want to call it- starts a trend.

A trend of forgiveness and gratitude. Any help offered is valuable. A trend of sharing and providing comfort for those in need. A trend of listening and collaboration rather than finger pointing. Honestly, finger-pointing is pointless. We must work together to make sure every American has food, shelter and medical care. That everyone around the globe is getting the help they need during this pandemic.

I hope for a lot of things. 

But, most importantly that people, hang up their self-centeredness and take care of one another. That humanity realizes we are fighting a battle here, not just one with a microscopic invader, but also a prejudicial and arrogant assumption that “This inconvenience is unnecessary.” It is necessary. Better to overreact than under-react. Save lives. Change lives. Alter society for the better. Become better.

Transformation is hard. Especially when we are scared. But, if we focus on the truth, research and gather real, honest data- stop the rumors and negativity- we can get past this. We will hopefully look back and say I did positive work to help others- not I was myopic, I only took care of myself.

Only time will tell-

How one microscopic entity brought about a new macroscopic reality: News at 11:00.

Laddering Up (73)

I look up, the ladder seems endless. Metal and cold to the touch, I hesitate. It feels wobbly, even though someone is holding it steady. I look up again, keeping both of my feet firmly on the ground.

I sigh, a loud one.

They look at me.

It's only a ladder.

All you have to do is climb.

I step aside, let the next climber ascend. The rungs clank under their heavy shoes. They have no problem overcoming the inertia.

They have momentum that carries them to the top and over the ledge.

They peek over, smile down at me. I stay frozen. I look at them and then back at the rungs- who seem to be gawking and finger pointing.

Another one steps up, eager for the clamber higher.

Then another person, escalates with ease.

I take another deep breath, try to step over to the ladder, but resist.

Rails, spreaders, extension- glimmer.

My face does the opposite.

I choose to sit this one out.

What Would Have to be True (71)

What would have to be true for this to happen? What a great question to avoid the bias. We all have a bias to favor our own beliefs. We hunt for information that flatters us- reconfirms our opinion. We are in constant demand- to ourselves of course.

We see what we want to see. We stay in our bubble of truth, even if we are wrong. We choose to see past the obvious signs- ignore the alternate, because our bias tells us to.

We are trapped in a cognitive bubble. The bubble can become very inflated. A very quiet breeze can send us swirling. The lightest of pricks, can pop our bubbles. If we welcome a sharp change in perspective, we can fight our bias. We just tend not to. The bubble is light, transparent and magical. We prefer to stay inside.

We all have a zone of creativity. It lies beyond the bubble. It might be the glimmer of sunlight passing through, or the wand that begins our flight- but we can only grow, if we allow ourselves, to burst our narrow vision of the world. We have to pop a lot of bubbles, to make this happen.

As we grow more and more, venturing into the abstract. We climb past this zone of creativity and into the territory, of design and ingenuity. We need a little absurdity and imbalance, to get us there. We have to laugh and see ourselves as foolish, once in awhile, to rekindle our childhood imagination. What would have to be true for us to do this?

A belief in magic. An understanding of our own imaginations. A connection to the ether. A journey on the spiritual superhighway of thoughts, dreams and accomplishments. It's all up to you now- pop some bubbles and spread those wings. The limitlessness of your imagination, just needs a little spark, a little sparkle, a little jolt from your spark plugs. So get charging.

Toggle and Sew (69)

There is a loop, I see it. Small and narrow. But, if I focus my eyes, really look tight on it- I can see the curve. I can see the bend. I can see the circumference of where I am going. It looks so far away. As if I am looking in a telescope backwards.

A distance darkened at its edges, with a speck of something glimmering, beckoning. Then I blink and lose the vision. Now all I see is a needle, small and delicate- yet sharp. I prick my finger as I try to adjust the thread.

I try to toggle it again. It proves difficult to push the flimsy, now shredded thread, through the non-visible loop. I pull back the fiber, put it in my mouth to moisten it, then run my fingers across its wet surface.

It glistens in the light. Telling me a tale of refusal. I smile at it. It doesn't know what I know- I will succeed. This button needs to be fastened or it will be lost. I toggle, it bends to my will- as it slides through the circumference, familiar.

Stitch- through, push. Pull, towards- the filament is thin, wispy. It is easy to tug, yet the fabric is thick. I don't have a thimble, I force the needle through, leaving an indentation in my finger. It mesmerizes me. It distracts me- I look at it until it disappears. Then I repeat the process until the button is adhered.

Toggle and sew complete. Routine to some. For me a rare occasion. I noticed every nuance. Every angle. Every nudge and pluck. It was relaxing. It was purposeful.

It triggered a memory of watching my grandmother sew. My aunt knit. My mother repair my many hems. It seems so antiquated and so beautiful. So primal and visceral.

A tradition.

Tool Kits, Tool Boxes and Tool Belts- A Teacher's Arsenal (68)

A tool box is used to organize, protect and carry. To put everything in its place. It can be heavy metal, or thick plastic- but either way, its designed to last. It might be tall, with lots of drawers. Maybe, portable with a handle. Equipped with wrenches to tighten. Pliers to pinch and clamp. Drivers to wedge and tighten. For a teacher, this is the curriculum. The standards with their nuances. The pacing guide.

The tool kit is specialized. Kept in a case, for easy access. They are placed into categories for certain purposes. Some kits are for triage. Some are for maintenance. Some are for engineering and design. These are accessible when needed. Important and relevant strategies for weekly and daily lessons. To engage, enrich, evaluate and elaborate. They are lesson plans- organized and thorough. These kits are individualized and personal. A teachers unique repertoire.

The tool belt, a utility belt. A pocket filled, accumulation of capabilities, possibilities and prevention. These are kept close, the differentiation strategies to help bridge the gaps. The SEL strategies in place to help students focus and stay mindful. They are secure. They are familiar. They are routine. They are the true essence of teaching, staying tight in place because they are necessary, they are expected, they are useful.

We all have tool kits, tool boxes and tool belts. We all fill them with our favorite tools. We shop for them, buy the sturdiest most reliable ones- with a warranty. They are, who we are, as educators. Now and again we find new utensils and we add them to a pocket. We are constantly looking for better ways to build and design. These are our equipment, our wardrobe. They are as much a part of us, as our words and actions. So keep them organized, updated and sharp- because they will shape the future, one day at a time.

How Animated Films Bring Science to Life (66)

There are some amazing science related animated films out there. Big Hero 6, Meet the Robinson's, Osmosis Jones, just to name three. I show all of these during the school year. Big Hero 6 to demonstrate engineering and perseverance, Osmosis Jones is all about the human body.

Meet the Robinson's is about adversity and invention- ingenuity. But, also being quirky and staying true to yourself. All the while, being bound up in discovery and science. I teach 7th grade GT students as well as Academic and ESL students and everyone of my students connects with these movies.

We often forget to show movies for pure entertainment. They don't all need to be factual, documentary science movies. I show those too: Amoeba Sister's, Planet Earth and Discovery Channel Science films, just to name a few. These have their purpose and students actually appreciate them, but sometimes they just need to get absorbed into a movie. Learn some SEL, mindfulness strategies with their science.

Today for ready to roll day, our big donations day of the year- they chose Big Hero 6 and Meet the Robinson's. While a few chose Moana and Mulan. But, either way they got to relax and just have a little fun. It was a day about community and mindfulness. Feeling connected and just being present with one another. This was a good day, and a good reminder that movies don't have to be purely curriculum related- sometimes, Pixar and Disney get it right. We just need to take a breath and let them do the talking.

If Nobody Speaks of It- Then What? (64)

At the bottom of my week's plummet, apparently rests a trampoline, because I flew back up quickly. I never even had time to pause and reflect. I was back in the air- searching for an alternative hobby. I hate heights- I like my feet firmly on terra firma. So being sprung back up rapidly- it gave me a jolt. It felt like I lost time. I was inquisitive at this new arrangement, puzzled in fact. ‘So,” I said aloud to the universe, ‘Is this how it’s going to be from now on? Let my mind rest for goodness sake.’ I can't continue in this- up, down, up, down- endless bounce ahead. framework.

Before the plummet, it felt temporarily, like I had won the battle. The fatigue siege. The incoming combatants of hyperactivity, snark and restlessness crept in the lead, however. I started to succumb to the barrage of questions, din of spring break brain, and endless rotation of here, there and sleep. But, my mindfulness swung high and hit frustration, out over the bleachers. I was elated, eager, engaged in interaction and sound advice. For a few hours at least.

Trampolines have a funny way of evening out the energy and becoming deadened. The springs taut waiting for rebound. Pep, recoil, pep, recoil. But, like many a rider of elasticity, we often fall off into the hardness of reality. If nobody speaks of it, the thud- did it really happen? We often gloss over the bruise and jump right back on. Some of us fearless. Others hesitant. But, we get back on.

I generally wade through the current, swimming upriver, I take on a lot. Two jobs and coaching quiz bowl. Yet, daily my alchemizing skills are generally on point. I sense the shark trailing behind me, but I have enough chum, to throw it off my scent. I am a master at misdirection. I make mistakes, I have slips of the tongue, I lose interest in what I'm doing and then remember- "Oh yeah, I have a class in front of me right now." I get distracted and ambivalent- do you?

These are the things we don't talk about- nobody speaks of. We mention our successes, we discuss and accept our failures or blunders but what about our ambivalence? What about those moments, in our heads, at least, that we make judgments, we curse the world and the horse it road in on? These inner monologues, we rarely share because we are embarrassed- horrified sometimes, at what actually goes through our minds. If nobody speaks of them, are we forgiven?

We tend to keep these indiscretions to ourselves, rightfully so. If we blurted out every disconcerting idea or evil thought- we would be institutionalized. But, I was thinking today, if we don’t face them ourselves, listen to our inner dialogue, we will never grow as people. It is one thing NOT to say mean things- it is quite another to NOT think them for very long. We will think them. But we have to let them go and analyze why we had them in the first place.

If nobody speaks of these things, will we ever truly understand the atrocities of mankind. Will we ever face our demons? Will we ever accept our absurd, calamity of a thought process? It is built on experience and perception. It is solidified with practice and ambivalence. But, it is also renovated and refurbished, to our specifications. We just need to be aware of any shoddy craftsmanship.- and have a definite blue-print to correct it.

Biome Speed Dating: An Interactive Adventure (62)

A giant biome project was not in my repertoire this year. I wasn’t in the mood to grade posters, dioramas or presentations. So, I decided to have students get a little competitive and creative. The beginning of the project was individual- they had to keep their biome a secret. They of course had to gather data: temperature, climate, annual rainfall etc. I also had them discover their biomes human risk factor, biodiversity and flora and fauna. With a little bit of geography and physical maps added in. They spent three days gathering their evidence. Then, I put a twist on it.

They had to create a character- their biome had to be personified and I gave them a profile they needed to complete about their ‘biome character.’ Questions: What is your favorite meal- spicy or mild? (Temperature) What is your career? (Niche) Where do you live? (Latitude) etc. Then I had them write a corny ‘pick up line’ and draw a profile picture. The later could only be used as a last resort- if they did not identify their biome.

Then every student was given a table number (pairs) and one was designated as the R-rotator and the other S-Stay putter. Then they were given 90 seconds to ask as many questions about the biome of their partner. Then the roles reversed. 3 minutes later they confirmed or denied their identity. They went through 8 rounds of ‘speed dating.’ At the end I had them ‘mingle’ – they found two people they hadn’t talked to and asked two questions to see if they could identify them too.

There was an A rotation and a B rotation so some of the students did not interview one another. Then lastly, I had students find their partner (the same biome as them) if they hadn’t already. They compared notes. This was a fun way for them to be competitive, active listeners and speakers. I walked around and listened to their conversations. They were very engaged and were trying to trick their ‘opponent’ by providing very cryptic information. It was a fun day.

Tomorrow as a closure activity, students will complete a quick survey of the difference between the main biomes: forest, desert, grassland, marine, fresh water, taiga, and tundra. Todays were much more specific: dry desert, cold desert, temperate rain forest, savannah, marsh and swamp just to name a few. This made it challenging to identify them. The speed also kept them on target and focused. They were determined to get them all correct, so they really needed to pay attention.

This activity- speed dating could be used for almost any topic where there are a lot of examples. Body systems, Elements on the Periodic Table, Genres of literature, even Mathematical Shapes. It is easy to set up, easy to grade and it lends itself to one class period and some time to reflect. It is engaging for students and teacher friendly. All you need is a timer, a student organizer and some gumption. Things will go wrong- they did for me. Students will go to the wrong table, students will be absent, and students won’t have their assignment done. But- they will have their research, and that will allow them to proceed.

It didn’t get super loud, students followed directions. They asked a particular set of questions I provided, or they chose their own prompts. They had a good time trying to hide the truth, only to have to share it in the end. It was very interesting to watch them cooperate with one another and interact with those they don't normally speak to. Finally, it was very collaborative and pressure free, because they could use their organizer as a safety net. This allowed my ESL students to feel comfortable in the activity.

I was worried things would not go as planned. I fretted over it. But, in the end it didn’t go exactly as planned- it went better, because they adapted, I adapted. They activity was meant to be like a giant dichotomous key, leading every student to an answer. They figured this out and even commented to each other, "This is like a dichotomous key, pretty cool." It proved to me that all my classes are motivated, adventurous and down-right excited to try new things. This was the first time I have done this and it definitely wont be my last.

Thank you to the teachers who created the base of this lesson- I used yours as inspiration. My students are 7th graders and thus it needed a bit of tweaking from a high school lesson to a junior high one. But, I was inspired by those who came before me, like all educators. I salute you.