Man, what a mix of the past couple of days. First off, I have to say, Zalika, thank you so much for the last class. I left that class with such a calmed comfortable safe feeling and knowing that as Leah said, we are becoming like a weird family. And the best part of that is acceptance of each other no matter what. The fact that everyone was so able to share such intimate details about their lives and accepting without judging everyone else. When everyone starting reading their, "I am from" poems I realized quickly that I didn't do it right, not being familiar with that, but I knew that it didn't matter, and everyone would still listen and respect me. And the fact that everyone was crying and being themselves and letting their emotions show so much is just a display of how safe we do feel. Teaching is so much, leading by example and creating an environment and Zalika, you really did show us the full effect of that yesterday. Down to the tone of your voice was perfect. Thank you again.
As far as class goes, it's kind of weird, I am off to meet up with all my friends from Taiwan this weekend. But in a sick way, I am bummed that I will be missing class. I never thought I would enjoy coming to class with such a great group of people every single day. Not sure how I feel about that fact that my name has become a verb though... I really hope that you guys do not view me negatively in that way. Last thing I ever wanted was to step on any toes. To be completely honest, I have always been a very quiet, sit in the back and keep my mouth shut type of person. I have really had to work so hard out of my comfort zone to be an active part of discussions and class. It has been the trusted feeling of all of you that has allowed me to feel comfortable enough to do so. I am sorry if I stepped on any toes or made others feel uncomfortable. That was not my intention at all.
I hope you all have a great weekend. Have fun and I will be thinking of you while I am sitting in Canada with my nose in my textbooks.
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Dylan,
ReplyDeleteOn my part there has been no toe stepping. You are amazing and a gift to our cohort. I think in all of our own special ways we are all gifts to one another. I am going to go work on my actual blog so I can "DYLAN" it!!
beth
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ReplyDelete"to dylan" verb 1) to accomplish something thoughtful and wonderful in very little time 2) to be an example for others in a humble and modest manner 3) to act as the social director for a group of overworked and overstressed students 4) to be one cool cat
ReplyDeleteHave a great weekend, Dylan. We will have a beer (or seven) in your honor tomorrow.
peace!
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ReplyDeleteI also wanted to comment about our last class one Tuesday. So here goes...
ReplyDeleteIt's a pretty incredible feeling to be trusted with so many insecurities, hardships, personal details of lives. As I listened to some absolutely incredible pieces, not only the content, but the beauty in which people expressed themselves it was pretty inspirational. Just the day before during our lunch time, I told Tara that I didn't like poems that didn't rhyme,(right before our sweet rap/song class in art) and I think for the first time in my life i felt how powerful poetry can be. I honestly couldn't tell you if there was any rhyming tuesday, I was much to absorbed into peoples stories, and Ellie's contagious crying. So I just wanted to second Dylan, and say thanks you!
On a much different note, Dylan, I fully appreciate what it takes to speak out to the class, this is something I'm working on getting better at. I have yet to use your name as a verb, but I can assure you it's considered a positive action.
Dylan, and everyone,
ReplyDeleteI second Rachael's definition of to Dylan. I think we are all taking turns setting the bar high, or on some days, seeing who can slack the most. And I feel so privileged to be part of such an amazing group. As someone who isn't bothered by speaking up, it's hard for me to relate, frankly, and I really appreciate the reminders that this kind of discourse and interpersonal sharing is hard, and real, and really beautiful. Thanks everyone.
Dylan,
ReplyDeleteI had not heard your name in verb form, but from reading Rachael's definition it sounds like we all really like you. I like to think of you as Daddy Dylan for organizing our social events. Mommy Beth is planning the event for tomorrow. I think you're great Dylan and I've really liked getting to know you.