Be a Mirror and a Window

 Welcome back after two weeks of special posts for very special events! I hope you had an amazing Teacher Appreciation Week. We know that showing respect and appreciation for educators is beyond a "one-week" event. In the spirit of appreciating each other, I thought about our profession thoughtfully and found that I view our roles as two different things: mirrors and windows.

So let's think about ourselves from both a mirror and a window. Pause reading for a minute and think about what those terms mean to you. What words come to mind? Which one do you resonate with, and which one do you think you mimic How can we be both a window and a mirror?

As educators, we are very often a mirror for our students. I feel we naturally fell into this role when we chose to be a teacher. We show them what they are doing right, and where they made their mistakes. We model for them what our expectations are, and how to accomplish the challenging tasks that teach us the most.  Students see in us the satisfaction from working hard- since "no great view came from an easy climb." As a mirror, we also reflect and shine with strategies for resilience, showing that mistakes are what moves you forward. Being a mirror for our students is one of the most important roles we can have. If we don't take that time to be that reflection for them, we won't be able to provide them with what they need, nor give all we have either. I would also like to think that in all of our instruction, we bring a bit of ourselves into it, and we mirror our own interests and passions in our work. That's when we make those true connections and students are engaged the most. 

In contrast, we are also a window for our students. Unlike a door that can fully swing open, allow a harsh wind to come in, or for our students to "run out," we can open windows slowly with care and let in the light that so many need in their lives. By doing this, we allow our students to make adjustments to the light and feel it's warmth, and not feel the need to back up or turn away from it. Being a window offers a safe way to begin their journey of learning. We open up a world of possibilities for them by serving as their "window"and for many, we are the breath of fresh air they need in their lives. Teachers know their students well and can see what's both on the outside and inside. It's teachers that make the difference when they feel alone or not supported, and bring out the best from them. 

Windows show us what’s beyond the immediate picture and as far out as our eye can see. Educators show students that they have many options, and taking the time to explore them is a good thing! It's also a good thing to know that it takes time to develop skills and find what path to take. Education is not a race, and reaching growth (not goals) take time. Once you achieve a goal you've reached the top, so you always want to reach for growth (John Maxwell.) Windows allow you to see details of what's around you; what to be aware of and what will be helpful. It’s only by seeing the details up close students can make determinations about what they want for their lives.

While mirrors are important to reflect and think about what we do well, and what we need to improve, its through windows we start our journey and see where we are heading. We see what appears to be an end, but it’s really the horizon line before us that sets our purpose and meaning. When we focus on the horizon, we set no boundaries for ourselves and for others. We also should embrace others along our journeys and stress to students that having others come with us is a key element to success. Horizons also have no definitive ending, making what do full of possibilities and endless directions. 

Let’s continue to be both the mirror and window our students need, while also doing the same for each other. Continue to show other teachers their strengths and what to reflect on so they can continue to grow. We should also share our the "mirror/windows" perspective and encourage others to "pay it forward," and encourage others to think about it too. Ask your peers how you can be the mirror for them so they feel they get the most out of your advice and support. We can also show them the way through contemplating possibilities, and work through options. By opening this “window” we can allow our peers to reach for new goals and what they want beyond what they thought was possible. There's no limits when we work together and support each other teacher friends! Let’s be that person for them who pulls back the shades, opens the “window” and makes the connection that others need to feel empowered, strong, and confident in what they do. When we extend this to others, we know it comes back to us, often when we least expect it to. 

Let’s work together this week to be a mirror and a window friends; we need both to move us forward and keep the support going. As educators, we deserve that from ourselves and each other!

Final Thoughts: Keep being a mirror who reflects the strengths in others, and shares reflections of themselves. Keep being a window that opens slowly and lets light in, as well as the fresh air. Keep looking out the window to the horizon, and focus on what's possible for you and those you lead. Finally, keep the balance of being the mirror and the window for yourself, your students, and other educators. You are need teacher friends, you are cherished, you are valued!