08.30.08
“I am the only author…”
“I am the only author of the dictionary that defines me.”
-Star Jones
I found this quote today on the blog www.diabeticizme.wordpress.com. I really liked it because it has to do with authors and dictionaries…but also because it is about defining ourselves.
Some recent conversations have had me thinking about how we define our lives, how we live our days, how we value what is important to us, and how we value ourselves. (I know, way too deep for a gorgeous Saturday afternoon!) But, I think that through it all, the important thing to remember is that we are each our own authors. We are often so caught up in what is happening around us that it can become overwhelming and sometimes feels like it is all becoming the author instead of ourselves. Even when situations are beyond our control, we still have the strongest power over our own selves that no other person or no other thing can come close to.
So, when someone or something else adds a new entry to the dictionary that is you, remember that you are the only one who writes the definition. Make it good!
~Melissa 
PS…This is actually a good exercise: Try to think of a few words that you would say “define you.” Then, write out definitions specific to your own life. I have actually done this with some of my middle school students and they have had a blast with it! The definitions don’t have to be like the ones that you find in an actual dictionary; they can and should be completely original and unique to you.
08.23.08
“THE WAY IT IS”
THE WAY IT IS
There’s a thread you follow. It goes among
things that change. But it doesn’t change.
People wonder about what you are pursuing.
You have to explain about the thread.
But it is hard for others to see.
While you hold it you can’t get lost.
Tragedies happen; people get hurt
or die; and you suffer and get old.
Nothing you do can stop time’s unfolding.
You don’t ever let go of the the thread.
-William Stafford
These lines came to me today in a back to school letter. Now, I am sure that the intention was for the “thread” to symbolize our reasons for teaching and dedication to the profession. I can certainly perceive that in the poem and can of course apply it to my interpretation because there are many obstacles and challenges that teachers face all the time. One must be dedicated to teach; it is a given.
However, I can’t help but also think that a more appropriate explanation for what the “thread” in the poem is, is really love – true love, unconditional love, unwavering love. I believe that love can carry you through any tragedy or difficult situation. It isn’t easy for others to always recognize it or understand it if they aren’t a part of it, and I feel those people are the ones to whom you might have to “explain about the thread.” People who have never experienced this kind of love may not know how to handle the explanation, but I think that anyone who has ever known true love will understand.
The thread is what gives you hope when to everyone else there appears to be none.
The thread is what makes the pain hurt a little less and the joy heal a little more.
But, then what about the people who don’t have a “thread” (whether the thread is a dedication to their career or true love or both)? What happens then, with each tragedy and difficult situation when there is no thread? How can those people get back on track when they don’t know where the track is? What if you are still holding on to the thread, but it breaks? Is it ever too late to spin a new thread?
What do you all think? What is the “thread” in the poem to you? Please share your thoughts.
~Melissa
