Unconditional

“The greatest thing that we can do is to help somebody know that they are loved and capable of loving.” ~ Fred Rogers

By now, the school year is well underway and it’s getting real! The honeymoon phase is over and we are navigating complex classroom dynamics. Preliminary assessments have most likely begun. The lesson planning could go on indefinitely and there always seems to be a few items remaining on the to-do list. We arrive at school with gumption for another day! We return home exhausted.

If I was given the task of using one quotation to define the teaching profession, I would choose the above quote by Fred Rogers. I believe it captures the purpose of educators: to help somebody know that they are loved and capable of loving. Our students need these reminders. We also need to hear these truths. Today, in the midst of the busyness, may we center ourselves in loving others unconditionally and believing that everyone is capable of loving those around them.