The greatest detriment to the modern world is our inability to unlearn behaviors that no longer serve us. It is simpler to request someone else to change than make the change in ourselves. Our words are like a whisper trying to be heard in a crowd, but it is our actions that will gain attention and provide comfort? So I ask, do your actions align with your goals?
I alone can not actively reform the educational system, as an educator, I had little to say within my classroom. I could spend time discussing the outrageous pressure put on teens, lack of movement in the lower and mid grades, the loneliness epidemic, share and listen to stories of students bullied by teachers, or I could do something about it. Like most teachers we value education, however, unlike the educational system we were willing to educate a little differently not in the confines of the four walls, but in the openness of the world.
We were not originally looking to step outside of the proverbial box when my husband and I decided to homeschool our children. We were looking to build lasting family bonds, provide opportunity, and expand individual learning passed on interests and hands on experiences. Frankly, we thought homeschooling our children would be viewed as a benefit we saw not just for our immediate family, one that would allow our children more time with grandparents and other family members. We thought the passing on of knowledge and skills that we saw within our family members would be embraced. We were nervous and anticipated gaining comfort from others as we shared our aspirations. We were wrong more than we thought, but we did it anyway because it is not about getting it perfect, it’s about showing up and having more good days than bad.
Over the years, we proved that our desire to be life learners and taking our children’s education seriously was a top priority for us. Some family and friends came around, but it was a lonely start. While I am not always an advocate for co-ops, it was the best place for us to start. We met families that had forged a path where we saw new terrain. Their kindness, openness and generosity proved to be a gift, a resting place from judgment, an understanding shoulder on tough days and a community to call on for celebration or time of need. Once you commit to starting, you begin to build confidence as you find and figure out each step along the way.
The goal is not to get it alright, the goal is to win more days than you lose while spending your time and energy on something that is important to you. I am not telling you to homeschool, but I am telling you that it might be worth considering.