Over the weekend I decorated the door of my classroom with butterflies, put up pictures of butterflies, and then hung a few more. I brought in my teaching assistant, Smiley the wheelchair, and set up 30+ books I will read to my students over the next month. The best decorations for the butterfly effect came in with the kids, however.
$116 came in first thing, on the first day of the unit. This is almost enough for one wheelchair and we
hadn't even started. 116 butterflies were proudly hung up on the wall of the school displaying the kid's commitment to make a difference and help out another child.
The first day of the unit is much like Christmas. I want the kids to open all of the presents and surprises all at one time because I am so excited for them. Discovering a little bit at a time over a serious of weeks will produce the most heart change, however.
Today we talked about how everyone of them has the ability to change the world. Even though what they do may seen small, the ripple effect can be felt around the world in a matter of minutes. We had a great conversation about the purpose everyone has and they shared with me what they thought their purpose was...they gave beautiful answers.
I introduced the children to my friend and hero, Joni Eareckson Tada, by watching a video from Joni and Friends Kid's Corner. They were amazed by Joni's abilities and already feel a connection to this beautiful lady. They shared some of the things a physical disability can prohibit but they were much more fascinated with Joni's ability to sing, paint, and write books.
I hope their wheels are spinning as they think about the conversations today and I hope their questions are endless over the dinner table tonight. I can hardly wait for them to meet the amazing people, who happen to have a physical disability, that will enter their lives in the next few days.
No comments:
Post a Comment