Slice #31 of 31- What I Won't Forget

During the month of March, I have participated in the Slice of Life Challenge, hosted by the community of writers at Two Writing Teachers. Many of my slices are at my personal blog, Just Write, Melanie, but ones that deal specifically with education appear at Two Reflective Teachers. 

Dear Slice of Life Community,

This is an open note of thanks. You have all inspired me throughout the month. 

You reminded me that our impact, our lasting impact, on students intertwines with how we make those students feel. While I do not remember every comment, I am arriving at April 1st with confidence as a writer and as a thinker because all month, I have basked in the support and positive energy of this community. That feeling will endure.

You provided me with writing ideas I would not have thought of. On some days, I wasn't sure what to write, and I found seeds of ideas in your words. I also found wisdom that helped me find my stories, value my voice, and reassert my beliefs about the importance of literacy. 

You commented on my posts, even when I didn't think they were very interesting or funny or smart. When you wrote that my post made you laugh or cry or think, or that you were going to share my ideas with colleagues, I felt important and energized to write again tomorrow. 

You confessed your struggles and your fear of putting your writing out their in public. Isn't it scary to put our words out there? Yes, we worry about the typos, spelling, and grammar mistakes, but the ideas and the snippets of our lives are even bigger worries. I felt safe with my writing because of your comments and reactions, because of your honesty and reflections about how you feel the same way.

You wrote about and shared incredible teaching practices. I know that I spent way more time reading than writing this month. The students within my reach have reaped the benefits of the collective knowledge of this community about engagement, literacy, and self-efficacy.

You made me a better educator, writer, and learner.

I am humbled by your intelligence, eloquence, discipline, and commitment to reflection and continuous improvement. 

I thank you all.

I will miss you as part of my daily life, but I will see you on Tuesdays.

As always, happy slicing,