Missing pieces make up my life. Sounds defeatist, but it isn't. For instance, a two-year sabbatical from documenting my thoughts here is a missing piece in my life. I refer to it as a sabbatical, so I can convince myself that it is okay to not write for so long; I was collecting data, life data.
Another missing piece of my life is being at work while my daughter is at preschool. Nine hours of separation, for good reason, but still a missing piece.
103 students. They are all present, but let's get real. There are missing pieces in their learning, so that means another missing piece is added to my life.
As I take a step back and reflect on some of these missing pieces, it becomes apparent that I can't do everything and I can't be everywhere, but I can only be myself and do things with intention. Missing pieces aren't necessarily bad, and they can always be found. For instance, I'm writing now. I've continued to write even during my "sabbatical," just not really the things I wanted to write. But, here I am now.
Those nine hours away from my daughter helps her build resiliency, independence, and gives her an amazing opportunity to learn, socialize, and discover.
I casually observe my students and now that the second semester has begun, those missing pieces of their learning are being filled in as they unknowingly apply their skills to create new knowledge.
Missing pieces are not lost
In time they will be found
Be patient with yourself
and the puzzle will be solved.
