How do we talk about issues that matter?

I do not think there is a right or wrong way to speak upon issues that matter. I think our focus should be more on getting the information out there. If we do not take the initial step, how is it possible for us to know the results? I mean some of our hypotheses may be correct but sometimes the results surprise us.  

Deep down, if we truly believe that it is important to talk about issues that matter then the only thing that is stopping us is...failure. 

If you think about it...all us in terms of perception, are at a different level. So, no matter how careful you are in expressing issues that matter to you some people are going to object. Yes, there are ways we can word things a lot better so we do not come out as rude, but the initial step is what is going to help us shape the conversation. 

Acceptance, acceptance, acceptance. 

“Acceptance does not mean liking, wanting, choosing, or supporting...Rather you’re choosing to allow it to be there when you can’t change it in that moment” (Bruneau, 2020).

“Remember that accept is a verb. It’s an active process, one that must be practiced consciously” (Bruneau, 2020).

“Many people believe that acceptance is a sign of apathy. Passivity. Giving up...Practicing acceptance does not necessarily mean you won’t be able to make a change” (Bruneau, 2020).

I hope these three quotes help you the reader understand what I’m trying to come across with the word acceptance. I think a way we can talk about issues that matter is to first accept what we are dealing with right now. Starting with getting to know ourselves...what we have done. Being open to getting to know the people around us. Like I said in the beginning we are all at different levels of perception. Lastly, accepting the events that we have currently encountered. Not to cause any pity but the word acceptance has become an important word in my life, especially with the current situations I am dealing with at the moment. It’s been hard. However everything seems to now correlate with what I’m learning about...somehow. Well it makes sense in my head *laughing emoji* Anyways, I’m so glad that I chose to read “A Letter to the students of colour who were in my History classes,” by Dylan Wray. 

“I have sat down with students across the country and listened to their stories of humiliation, exclusion, disappointment and hurt. I heard the stories I wasn’t brave enough to hear when I was standing in front of you as your teacher” (Wray, 2020).

Mr. Wray accepts he’s unconscious biases, he’s unwillingness to face the students of color, for not treating them like the beliefs of equality that he held when he was their history teacher, etc. Acceptance comes a long way but once it’s practiced the benefits of it are endless, as well as taking the initial step of getting the information out there. 

 

 

  

One last thing, since it is the week of Thanksgiving I would like to end the blog by saying that I am grateful for this course, CI 3310. I have learned so much about the education system, and how it is important to stay informed. With everything that I’ve learned, I’ll for sure take it with me not only as part of my teaching career but in general, wherever my pathway takes me. I am also grateful for my classmates in this course. I have learned so much from your guys. I enjoyed getting to read everyone's thoughts on important topics that we discussed in class. Lastly I am grateful for myself for sticking through with everything college has thrown at me *sobbing emoji* 

“you are doing amazing sweetie”

Happy Thanksgiving! 

& 

Happy Holidays!

 

 

Reference:

5 Things Everyone Should Know About Acceptance (mindbodygreen.com)

A letter to the students of colour who were in my Histo... (dailymaverick.co.za)