Mindfulness. It’s a word I have thought a lot about for several years now. I try to teach it to my students and my own children.

Today’s scripture is from Psalm 19:14 “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”

Kind of had a few rocky spots today at school. Kids are on edge as spring break is right around the corner. It’s not uncommon to see increases in student misbehavior, as their anxiety increases about the upcoming change in their routine.

At the end of the day, I had a meeting with a peer evaluator for my Q-Comp cycle. The meeting had to start a few minutes late as I had a student that was pretty upset. As he pranced around my room, flicking playing cards around the room and at me, I gently reminded him that he needed to pick them up and he needed to get back on track. He did pick them up, and he did continue to make remarks, but I continued to calmly remind him what his task was at the time. The bell rang, and his day ended. As he walked out the door, I sighed a huge sigh.

My peer evaluator talked about how my calmness was like a magic sauce for that student. I explained that he is one that will match the reaction, so if I stay calm, he remains calm. If I start raising my voice, then he starts escalating, and no one gains anything from that. She explained that so many special education teachers she has observed have such a gift with remaining calm and calming down escalated students. (I often remind myself that “The kids who need love the most will always ask for it in the most unloving ways.” That statement is so very true.)

I digress. She also pointed out how hard I work at my job. How much I care for my students. How much I put into finding new ways to teach them math.

I guess I just take all of this for granted each day.

Our conversation got me thinking. Where do I go to regroup and reset myself? Because being mindful only happens when you are in a good spot yourself.

Well, this is my favorite spot in our house. In my living room, on my couch, surrounded by quiet, fresh flowers (of course) and my favorite blanket. My favorite scent is in a warmer on the bookshelf right next to my spot.

Part of being mindful is knowing when I need to take time for me. Knowing when I need to find my quiet center to regroup and get back up to live life again. Hence, my late nights. I often find my peace right here in my spot…and surrounded by quiet when everyone has gone to bed.

So, thank you, Laura, for recognizing my gift and making me realize that what I do each day is pretty special. I needed that reminder today.