After a very challenging day at work, I opened my lap top to briefly check my email in the evening. It was a parent email in response to an update I shared. Dread set in. Should I check this now or wait? I decided to just take a look. What I read brought tears to my eyes. Here is an excerpt from the email:

"Anyway, to get to the point, my husband came up to me to let me know during class today you really made a point to stop and check in on the kids’ well-being. He was clear “no she really cared and always does but this time it was a whole new tone”. I want you to know that we notice you reaching out to the kids and letting them feel heard. I also want to ask something to you. How are you doing?"

Tears. I thought I could contain them. Prior to my class meeting I shared with my husband, "Today, I am not ok." I tried hard to record a video message for my students to clarify expectations for the week. But completing this and other daily tasks was difficult. I realized in this moment, I have been pushing and setting my expectations beyond high for majority of the year. Sometimes we are hopeful we are doing the right thing and reaching students especially in the virtual world and we don't necessarily see the fruit of our efforts. Reading the email was an impactful moment. A simple message with the theme of, "I see you" allowed me to let go. On top of this, "How are you doing?" gave me pause and time to reflect and respond.

If you are reading this, know you have made it this far in a tremendously challenging year. Hang on to hope. Rest. Reflect. Hold on to impactful moments. Be encouraged. We will make it to the other side of this.