Saturday Sayings: Perspective

I experienced a crucial mind shift this week. I'm hoping that my written reflection will be enlightening not only for this teacher, who might be noticing a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel, but also for you, the innocent bystander, who just might be able to relate. 

A mind-boggling incident occurred at recess with one of my little people this week. My typical response to a mind-boggling incident (and I've experienced my share this year) would go something like this.

You've got to be kidding me. I work too hard on character each and every day for something like this to happen. 

Instead, for some reason, possibly divine intervention, my response was both slightly and hugely different.

It's a good thing I work so hard on character each and every day. My kids sure need it.

This slight variation in wording rocked my world this week, in a really good way. The incident, though frustrating, didn't turn into a dark, gray cloud of despair raining down over my outlook on the condition of my classroom. Instead it encouraged and boosted my daily efforts. It validated why I do what I do and how hard I work to make a difference. 

Seemingly, I accidentally stumbled across this new perspective, but I'm asking the question, how can I purposefully transform a previously negative outlook into something of promise and hope? I'm confident we all could use more of both.