Gleaming Glimmers!

A Call to Slow Down and Find Joy

This post is not just for educators but is a reminder and reflection on the importance of slowing, pausing, and noticing the blessings and opportunities we each have.?

Life can be a whirlwind, especially during transitions such as one I have just done like moving to a new home. Sitting amongst a sea of boxes to unpack, flatpacks to build and settling in, it is easy to let the urgent consume our attention. However, amidst the chaos lies a valuable lesson, the power of slowing down and noticing the "glimmers" around us.

These glimmers aren't grand gestures; they're the subtle details that weave elements of beauty throughout our lives. The cracked tile whispering a story of the house's history, the missing step I fixed with my own hands, the gentle hum of wasps in the garden, all these imperfections become part of the unique charm of this new place I call home.

Though the magic extends beyond the physical environment. It's the breathtaking view that takes my breath away each morning, the symphony of birdsong welcoming the dawn, the playful sunbathing lizards adding a touch of life to my garden or the taste of my morning coffee with breakfast.?

Not forgetting to mention the neighbourhood, the early morning exodus from my street, the squeal of the coal train that passes through the valley, the walkers out with their pets each day, and the dogs left at home chatting between the yards. Each moment, a glimmer waiting to be discovered.

In the daily rush, it's easy to miss these wonders. We get caught in the cycle of busyness, our focus laser-sharp on to-do lists and deadlines or concerns relating to changes and disappointments beyond our control that put us into a state of paralysis. Yet, within this whirlwind lies a powerful opportunity, the opportunity to pause, breathe, and simply notice.?

Pausing to notice allows me to take moments of wondering, where I can make sense of the things happening around me and see that I am just a part of the bigger picture happening around me. These moments of stillness offer me a glimpse into the beauty that I am surrounded by and the blessings hidden in plain sight. It's through this intentional noticing that we cultivate gratitude, wonder, and awe for the world around us.

The longer I am alive the more I see myself lose this perspective and as such become anxious, stressed, angry, and frustrated. I know I am not alone in this!? When we get caught in the cycle, it can be hard to get off the bike and reset; however, it is important too. This doesn't mean we all need to go out and buy new houses, but it is crucial for us to see the blessing we have right in front of us.

As an educator, I understand the pressure to constantly strive for perfection, to be perpetually planning and preparing. But true fulfilment doesn't lie in relentless achievement; it lies in the simple act of being present. I am finding more and more, it is the pressure we put on ourselves to have things such as programs, resources, and our organisation at such a high level that negatively impacts our wellness. We need to cut ourselves a little bit of slack and allow ourselves moments of downtime which is time to disconnect and reconnect.?

This too is something I am intentional to encourage my staff to do. In the past, I have had some pushback on this; however, I am a living testament to the benefits and as someone who in the past has struggled with switching off it has made a world of difference.

As professionals, we need to understand that we are in the business of working with people and this means relationship is king. Teaching frameworks may emphasise content knowledge and refined pedagogy, but at the heart of education lies a more fundamental truth, the relationship between teacher and student. It's through connection, empathy, and understanding that true learning flourishes.

So, I challenge myself and my fellow educators to embrace a new approach, one that prioritises human connection alongside academic rigour, and moments of stillness and reflection over perpetual motion. Allowing small moments to create glimmers that spark joy, relationship or peace, and to cue our nervous system to feel safe or calm. These glimmers allow us to connect, regulate and make a positive impact on my mental health and wellness.

Even when life feels uncertain and the ground is changing, it is important to hold onto the tiny sparks of joy that light our way. Take a breath, truly see what surrounds you, and embrace the moments of peace and happiness, no matter how small. These glimmers are the embers that keep us warm, the wellspring that replenishes us, and the constant reminder of life's simple wonders. These glimmers sustain us, nourish us, and remind us of the beauty of being alive.

Enjoy your week and Stay the Course!