On Spontaneity and Consideration

     "Power corrupts." I have prided in guarding myself from hogging power, but lately, I see evidence that I am the "hog in the log." I openly share that the assistants in my class are co-educators. This is my vision and ideal. Recently, I have made unilateral decisions without consulting them. If the impact of these decisions only affected me, I would be justified. However, these decisions impacted my teaching assistants, and resulted in me informing them on their tasks, limiting the dialogue because the decision was finalized." Kudos to my team that they supported me.

       The nagging feeling inside told me that I needed to pay attention and reflect. The enthusiastic, creative spirit wants to leap spontaneously on opportunities that emerge. However as the classroom teacher and leader, I need to practice my responses: "This is a great idea! I need some time to discuss this with my team. I will get back with you." This will consideration will show I respect the other members of my teaching team and help be more consistent with my ideals.      This reminds me of when Ed and I were getting used to marriage. When invited to social parties or events, I made commitments for both of us without first consulting my spouse. As I have to do now, I rehearsed a similar script.