Teaching Heart to Heart:

Initially, the heart of a young child is innocent and hopeful. It is a heart that wishes upon stars, imagines fantastic adventures, and believes in miracles. The eyes of a young child are meant to see joy. Through the lens of childhood, a box, a mud puddle, or a stick can magically become a source of intrigue. The soul of a young child holds unlimited potential. Yet somehow innate qualities, interests, and talents diminish in many students. A kindergartener expresses, "I can't draw." A second grader proclaims, "I hate school!" A hopeless teen drops out of school. Too many students lack basic skills and are unable to read, while many others just do not like to read--having never acquired a passion for books. By high school, some students who have previously excelled academically, lose their enthusiasm for learning. Others have long ago decided they were failures and sought out acceptance elsewhere, perhaps in the close ties of a gang. Many more live in denial of their true feelings and seek solace in a world of alcohol and drugs. Eyes that once shone with hope and joy become clouded by boredom, disappointment, and disillusionment. Potential "greatness" is in the heart of each child. One does not need to win the Nobel Peace Prize, become an Olympic champion, or a national leader to merit greatness. Greatness is occurring all around us each day. People choose to raise orphaned siblings. Firefighters choose to go in harm's way to save lives. Farmers choose sustainable, organic farming. Volunteers choose to help senior citizens, homeless populations, and injured animals. Each of us make daily choices about living our best self--our highest self. And so it is that teachers are asked daily to choose to help children know their own greatness.