I Am Affectionate
“The conclusion is always the same: love is the most powerful and still the most unknown energy of the world.” ~ Pierre Teilhard de Chardin
“Affectionate” may not be a characteristic we quickly associate with our roles in education; however, after looking closer at the definition, we find that it relates well to the work we do. According to Oxford Languages, affectionate means: “readily feeling or showing fondness or tenderness.” The word, “readily,” stands out to me in this definition. This type of kindness is not a gradual development. It is an immediate show of care to another person, without hesitation, questioning, or preconceived judgments.
Consider the various situations we encounter in our school day which require us to readily show fondness or tenderness. We apply a Bandaid on a papercut, even if it isn’t gushing blood. Whether or not we have the time built into our schedule, we listen and validate the same stories over and over again. We navigate peer relationships as a mediator, coaching into empathy-building and problem-solving strategies. We provide meaningful academic feedback that creates opportunities for future discoveries. We make ourselves available for students to share personal or school-related concerns. And we welcome new students into our learning spaces on a daily basis.
Let’s think more about welcoming that new student. The classroom routines are already established, and your community is strengthening. Perhaps you get a few days or a few hours’ notice of your new student’s arrival. You know relatively nothing about this individual. Despite all these things, the moment you meet your new student, a warm smile grows on your face, you make direct eye contact, greet the student by name, and graciously introduce yourself. You may ask a question or two and even introduce them to a peer who can help answer their questions. This is affection. You are readily showing a type of unconditional love that sets the course for how this student views themself when they are with you. This is incredibly powerful, creating an atmosphere of safety and belonging in your classroom.
May the Lord Bless You and Keep You:
Today, may you display genuine fondness and tenderness towards those around you.
May your students always know you love what you do when you are with them.
May your encouragement bring out the unique gifts in others.
And may the Holy Spirit give you strength to continue to show love even in difficult times.
(From “Called to the Classroom: Daily Reflections for Educators” Day #50: I Am Affectionate by Christina Meline)
Day #13: Share a hobby you’re thankful for.
