My friend Kathy, a great communicator
I met Kathy in 2009 when I was doing one of my
field experiences for my Associate's degree.
She was a teacher in the infant room at the center where I was assigned
to the Pre-K room. Kathy was friendly
from the very start. She asked questions
about my life and truly listened. She
looked at me, asked clarifying questions and checked back with me the next time
I saw her for updates.
As it turned out, I ended up staying at that
center for my full time job and Kathy and I became co-teachers in the infant
room, along with two other teachers. The
first year I was there it was time to renew the portfolios for our NAEYC
accreditation. What a test of
cooperation amongst a teaching staff! It
was a stressful time, but Kathy was the one who kept everyone focused. She did not become offended or angry when
there were conflicts and disagreements.
She listened and made suggestions that incorporated everyone's concerns
and ideas.
I
worked with Kathy for four years, until she retired. I still find myself asking, "What would
Kathy do?" In many cases Kathy
would mind her own business. She would
keep confidentiality. She would seek to
understand the feelings and stresses behind someone's negative behavior. I still keep in touch with Kathy and often
talk situations over with her and she always gives good advice.
Before Kathy retired we nominated her for the
Fruit of the Spirit Award. The fruits of
the spirit, as explained in the Holy Bible, are love, joy, peace, patience,
kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. I strive to achieve these attitudes myself,
knowing that they will help make me a good communicator, just like my good
friend, Kathy.
Wendy,
ReplyDeleteI think it is great that you have such an amazing person as a mentor when it comes to communication. It is always a good thing to be able to visualize your mentor and ask yourself what they would do in a situation to help you communicate your way through whatever situation you might find yourself in.
I had a similar friend that I also looked up to when I was in the classroom. I like the fact that Kathy was in the infant room; I'm sure that the infants in her care benefited greatly from her wonderful communication skills. I also enjoyed reading about the Fruit of the Spirit Award, that sounds as if it a very special award to bestow on someone.
ReplyDeleteLaura
Hi Wendy, I enjoyed reading your post as it referred to both your personal interaction as well as observation of the same person. It is my belief that you were able to take a thorough point of view of your coworker having hands on assessment. It is few and far in between to find such quality driven individuals committed to serving and empowering others. On another note, I truly find it a very appreciative practice that your program offers the fruit of the spirit award. I am seeking to open a christian child care program prayerfully after graduation and that's an aspect I would like to offer my staff for a form of encouragement and recognition. Thanks!
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