Anyone who knows me knows that I LOVE music and the arts, and that I am passionate about what I do. As a music teacher, I would love for all of my students to experience, and feel, and understand how music can really bless and enhance their lives and learning. I would love for them to take advantage of this opportunity to learn music at their young age, to always strive to do their best, to follow instructions...
Well, today was a reality check that not all students are going to do their best, to try, to care, to practice, or follow directions. I must admit that today at one of my schools I got really frustrated when three of my students in the same class were not following directions, who regularly don't come prepared, and were being defiant and not answering my questions or doing what I asked. This was really frustrating to me because music is so important to me, and I do expect my students to be respectful, and to try to make an effort. When they don't, I get frustrated. But today I came to the realization of how important it is to remain calm and collected, and to focus on the postive. It is never worth sacrificing your personal happiness and self control over what another person is or isn't doing. I have my agency... I don't have to get mad. There are better ways of handling it. I realize that not every student is going to take advantage of this opportunity, or be passionate about it like I am. But I do what I do for the kids who
do take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to learn an instrument at their young age. I do it for those who practice, who say "thank you," and who follow directions, etc... Can I expect every student to be that way... to regularly come prepared, to take this class seriously?... No.
I think it's good for kids to know that you as a teacher have limits, and if they act a certain way there are consequences, and they will see the not-so-happy-and-nice side of Ms. Greenfield. But sometimes I feel bad when that side of me comes out. It's nice to get to the point where I know that I don't have to take their behavior or lack of personal investment in my class personally, or let it bother me and make me agitated. I look forward to putting this into practice more and more. There is a quote that I have always remembered, "People may not remember what you say, but they will always remember the way you made them feel." I know my students know that I have high expectations, but I do hope that they know I do care about them.
I was reminded again today that happiness does not depend upon what others do. I have always been highly motivated. But everyone has their own agency.
