Striking a Balance Between Rhythm and Revolution- Don’t Waste this Crisis.

It’s been a year and eight months since I have written. It’s interesting that the desire and burn to write again comes in the heart of the pandemic. But maybe it’s not so interesting. It’s in times of crisis that we are given the opportunity to re-evaluate, re-purpose, and re-imagine. I am learning that it’s in times of crisis that we have two choices- to rush back into predictable rhythm and routines or to acknowledge the ache and discomfort and seek out the revolution.

Where does ache come from? For me, it shows up when my beliefs are not matching my practices. Core beliefs I hold close are the value of promoting innovation over compliance, to not become disillusioned by details, empowering people over programs, and in meeting all learners where they are at, not where I think they should be. Through this time of crisis, the ache comes from the tug and pull of staying true to beliefs and finding the courage to challenge misaligned practices. Choices arise from this reflection. The choice to rush back to a safe rhythm that brings a known sense of comfort or step out on the cliff to see the possibilties.

As educators we have been charged with serving students in-person and virtually and with this charge have come some powerful conversations that magnify where our current practices might be analyzed to ensure alignment with our beliefs. What was the original intent of these practices, do they draw us closer to our mission, is our collective commitment to our beliefs compelling enough for us to engage in these crucial conversations?

As leaders when we show up daily, do we inspire innovation and a new future? Do we put our dreamers and visionaries in positions of influence and voice? How do we recognize the need for rhythm while still embracing the revolution?