Morning 6-15

I have always kept a journal and was raised loving book and knowing the power of words. I was amazed at the way black ink could create images in my head and evoke so much emotion: laughing, crying and even feeling like I'd lost someone or something when it ended...

I was a very reluctant English student, my mom is still in shock that this is what I teach, but in looking back most of that had to do with the fact that I felt fenced in. I hated essays and being bored.

In my freshmen year of college I had a professor who gave me a workable structure that allowed me to use my creativity within the bounds of structure. The last week of class I received a 100% on my last essay with her. I still didn't love the essay format but I did understand it. This would prove quite helpful in my college career. 

My sophomore year my English professor fed my creative side and taught me the value of revision and how a piece is never done. I had, theoretically, learned all of this in high school but it college I was more aware. I had a lot of money to lose. 

I write a lot, not always anything significant, usually just rambling. As a writing teacher if I'm asking my students to do it, I must do it first. 

I don't consider myself a good writer, not at all but I do know I am better off because I write. 

I ask my students on a daily basis to write out their anger and frustration, fold the page down so I don't read it, if necessary and then come and talk to me. This helps them stay out of trouble and gives both of us time to assess. It helps us think!