Positive Impacts
It happens a lot – especially with teachers – especially around this time of year. We get so focused on what we are trying (and often failing) to get accomplished, that we lose sight of the positive impact we continually make. I was reminded of this while working with a group of childcare providers in California yesterday morning.
The presentation was designed for adults. However, when the session started, I noticed one of the attendees didn’t fall into this category. She was significantly younger, and I assume, the daughter of a participant. Of course, I’ve had kids accompany parents to sessions before, but never have I had one actively participate – partnering up with adults, taking detailed notes, and engaging in table discussions. It was pretty impressive.
After the session was over, my young friend ran up to me. I thanked her for coming to the workshop and she handed me a small folded up piece of paper before running off. It wasn’t until I sat down on my long plane ride home that I pulled out the note and read it. It was small gesture of thanks on her part, but it had a big impact on me.
When we smile at a child in passing, when parents watch our interactions with their kids and learn, when we give someone an encouraging word, when we step away from our daily schedule and just talk with a child – I wonder how many of our behaviors have unintentional positive consequences we never see. Teachers, keep on keeping on. You make a difference – and I’m confident your impact is much greater than you will ever know.
P.S. – Thank you, Jocelyn, for your kind note. It made my day.
