The only real way that teaching will sustain me is if I look at it from the perspective that I teach because I enjoy sharing knowledge. I understand that I also would love to make a big impact on children’s lives, but reality says that I may not impact a single child into adopting what I believe to be great life lessons. Therefore, if I wish to be an ongoing figure in education I must teach simply for the joy of teaching and sharing of knowledge.
Again--the joy of sharing knowledge. I really appreciate that you believe in your importance and ability to touch lives even if you don't have the impact you would wish for. That is a mature outlook. And life is long. You may not think your message is getting across, but down the road, one of your students might be very much influenced by your teaching and example.
ReplyDeleteWhile there is a chance that not a single child will adopt a "great life lesson" from you, I believe that it is highly unlikely that you will never impact a student. Sometimes, you impact them in ways that you cannot foresee, and sometimes they discover the impact you had years down the road.
ReplyDeleteI think that your outlook is very realistic. Many teachers dive into their first year and come out extremely bitter when their own enthusiasm is not returned. The fact that you already realize that every student will not share your passion for the subject matter will help you in those years. I think you will find, though, that your passion for sharing knowledge will be contagious and the students will find a passion for learning something.