Hold that Rope!

Envy.  Thats a tough word to swallow for some people.  They struggle with the fact that other people have what they want.  Others have everything while they have nothing.  He/She teaches a class that I really want to be teaching.  I can't believe she has such a nice car, man I want that car!  I wish my clothes were as nice as hers.  Why is he so good at Basketball?  I wish I was smart like him.   These are all things we as educators may have said or heard a student say at one time or another.  Envy fills each and every one of us and with Social Media, Television, etc., it becomes harder and harder to empty yourself of these thoughts.  It effects all of us in a different way.  Many it may send to depression, others it will send into anger or even jealousy.  It effects the way we learn, grow and associate with others.  

As educators we have to begin to understand who we are before we can understand who are students are.  We have to realize that we were made a certain way, we all have certain strengths and weaknesses.  We all learn in different ways and teach differently.  Daily reflection is key in developing the understanding of oneself.  Being truthful with yourself and also having someone else to help hold you accountable is so important.  Many times that other person can really tell you the truth, but you must be able to trust that person. 

Being honest with yourself and looking at the "Man in the Mirror"  is the hardest thing for many people to do.  I learned many years ago while playing football at Benedictine College a term that I think applies to all people in tough times, times where teachers/leaders are trying to find themselves. The saying is Hold The Rope.  No matter how it burns your hand, how much it hurts, how hard it is and how much you want to quit- Hold that Rope.  Your students deserve it! Learn who you are and be the better you for the Students you teach!