Nearing the end of the first week of Fall classes, I want to record these small, random work-related nicenesses for good cheer. It's like that old labor song says, "Yes, it is bread we fight for, but we fight for roses too." (Such a poignant song, and this version in one of my favorite movies, Pride, always makes me choke up. Cross-cultural solidarity is my everything.)
Relayed
Two different people told me that incoming first years told them that they were here because they'd met me. I think it means I did a good job of showing how our college would be a good match for them rather than anything more dazzling.
Overheard
I was getting ready to leave for a class when I overheard colleagues in the hallway gushing about how colorful and cozy my office is. I recognized at least two voices and consider them good friends, but felt too bashful to acknowledge that I could hear them.
Backchat
A colleague emailed me to say: “Hello Maya! I do an icebreaker of "Dream Dinner Party" where people talk about five people they'd invite to their dinner party and why and one of my students included you in theirs. I just thought that was lovely and wanted to share!” Yay! I do love parties!
D.M.
And I saved the best for last. I was already eager to read dear Nicole's novel, Inhale Exhale. And this week I learned that when casting about for a name for a "kind teacher" in her novel, Nicole chose mine. I feel so incredibly honored. And I'm so grateful to be remembered as a teacher. And a kind one! Nicole embodies compassion; to be thought of as kind by her is indeed an honor. This is such generosity, I feel as I did when my old student named a teacher/mentor character in his video game after me.
Pic: Zinnias (I think?) outside my office building this week.
7 comments:
Awww! I can't wait for you to read it either!
So many flowers today, I love it! xoxo
This post makes me happy all over, and mostly happy for you! I'm not surprised you made your office and amazing space! If it is like your home, it is a gorgeous color bath and filled with things that are beautiful and special. What lovely compliments. I think you have been in sore need of good things of late and I'm glad you have had some!
So many good things... and indications you make a difference at your college and elsewhere.
Your colleagues and students are lucky to have you!!!
Your kindness sphere widens! This also means that your influence does as well. This is how we Make A Difference.
This is all so wonderful, Maya, and of no surprise to me. XO
Good for you. Take care.
There are so many great things in this post! You have definitely found your calling as a professor! I can see why your students love you so much and would want to invite you to a dinner party!!
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