In the eyes of an Educator during Covid19
May 15, 2020: We all feel the anxiety. We all feel the fear. We all question when this will be over. We are all waiting patiently for a cure. As an educator, I wanted to write this personal note to all of you, especially the children and the student's I teach. "Will things be the same again Ms. Rosey?" a student who asks me daily on the phone. My heart skips a beat, my eyes tear up, my breathing shallow. I pause for a moment and answer back, "We all wish for things to get better don't we? Maybe it was time for us to pause and let our environment heal. Sometimes we don't know what Waheguru (God) has in store for us, and we must be patient through it all. As your teacher, I will help as much as I can to bring you that feeling of safety."
It is definitely a hard situation to address with young children, and as parent's it may become frustrating trying to answer questions to which you have no answers to. That is OK! You have a right to express your feelings truthfully, and say 'I don't know'. You are not wrong in your emotions as a parent. You are not unworthy or oversensitive if you do not have the answers or feel overwhelmed.
What may help is to understand the feelings and emotions your child may have. Address them, feel them, accept them and breathe through the moment. We can all work together and do what is required to become strong individuals through this crazy time. Acceptance is key. Understanding and being patient is essential.
Will I be able to hold my student's hand again? Will I be able to hold and hug my students who are coming to me for the first time? How will I make sure my school is safe for my students to enter? All of these are questions that I face daily within, but I have a stronger way of answering these. I tell myself everyday, "Things will be better. They will be better because we now we have a chance to take care of ourselves and the environment."
My oath to my students when they are eventually able to come to back is that you will be taken care of. You will be given that extra strength of hope, love, kindness, patience, and trust that will be super special. You don't have to worry. Covid-19 is just a time we must overcome.
But as Dr. Suess says, “And will you succeed? Yes you will indeed! (98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed.)”
In the end, let us all do our part, and become aware of the changes within us; how can I react to the situation in a positive way? What should I focus on? How can I better myself? Find balance in your day-to-day responsibilities that will help you relax. Enjoy your time with your children and craft away! The biggest therapy is becoming that artist within. Dive into those beautiful colours and create that bright rainbow within your soul and shine bright!
Blessings to all of you! Stay safe and be happy. Life is too short!
-Ms. Rosey