How often do you take the time to really listen to what your students, faculty members, and parents are saying? What about what they are not saying? Do you take the time to listen to the voices of the silence? It is easy to hear those who speak the loudest…demanding to be heard. However, it is equally important, if not more so, to listen to those of few words. Although I pride myself on being a good listener, these days I find that I am always in a rush to deal with a school related issue or preoccupied in my own thoughts about an upcoming paper or project. However, I can honestly say that I still make listening a priority.
I recently attended an administrative meeting for my division. Before the meeting started, my superintendent mentioned that he wanted us to watch something. It made such an impact on me, I wanted to share it with you. Please watch the video posted below:
This is so true!! Everyone has a story! From students to teachers, the author of this post, the person reading this post…we all have a story. Our stories may not be the same and that is ok. I have often said, that on my worst day, I am the best that some of my students will encounter. After this particular admin. meeting, I tested myself to see what I know about the people around me. I went to the library and looked around. There were 13 people in the library at the time (students and adults). I knew quite a bit about many of the people, but I was disturbed when I saw a couple of “strangers.” I didn’t know anything about them aside from their names. I wondered about their stories and told myself that, moving forward, I have to make a point of getting to know those students.
I challenge you to remember that everyone has a story. The next time you are dealing with a discipline issue or even a personnel issue, remember that other factors could be the reason behind whatever problem or issue you are addressing. Take the time to listen to the voices of the silence. Test yourself…Are the people with whom you work strangers or do you know their stories?
Thanks for sharing this video. It is an excellent video to show staff and even students. We really need to remember that everyone does have a story and the importance of developing relationships with those we work with and educate everyday.
Taneshia, great video. I showed this to my wife and daughter. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for sharing this video Taneshia. It is extremely thought-provoking. It goes to show that no interaction with a person can be taken for granted. We never know what a person is going through or has gone through. We should always aim to add to a person’s life. Thanks again for sharing.