Carol A. Hand
I’m really not a writer, but here is the thing
If I put ideas on paper and have the right opportunities
I can build programs or teach classes and make those words sing
With enough love for others and hope in my heart
I’m willing to work long hours doing homework, listening
building alliances and thinking through issues before I even start
But the magic ingredients for ideas to blossom
are people who come together to build shared dreams
What they create in solidarity is often truly awesome
then it’s time for me to celebrate their creations and quietly walk away
and take time to breathe, and time for rest, and maybe even play
knowing there’ll always be more worthy ideas to put on paper – another day
***
Voices from the Margins 
Golden words, dear Carol!
For most young teachers they would be most welcome to learn to love their profession.
Best wishes,
Maria
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Thank you for your lovely comments, Maria. Teaching is such important work and there are so many reasons to love the chance to interact with students on this shared journey. 🙂
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Such wisdom Carol. Happy writing in 2017! I love reading your posts and I hope to also get back to blogging on a more regular basis. I recently received a stellar review of my book transcript from the publisher. Of course I had a lot of help writing it because I am not a seasoned writer, just a very passionate antagonist…lol.
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Thank you for sharing such exciting news, Joan! Congratulations on your book and kudos to you for the courage to take on so many new challenges because of your (com)passion. I appreciate your kind words and look forward to hearing more about your book. ❤
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Thank you Carol. I believe that words have the power to cause action and give hope to the voiceless. I also believe this book will do just that for folks who’ve known immeasurable pain for far too long. I’ll keep you updated!
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Joan, please do keep me updated. I send you my best wishes for success. 🙂
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So much of this resonated with my heart. So wise and wonderfully worded. Thank you for sharing, Carol.
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Thank you so much for your kind and lovely comments, Tori. ❤
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No, you are a writer!
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Well, maybe a storyteller, Susan. 🙂 You are a (truly gifted) writer. But writing is just not the same for me as being able to be part of the energy of a collective, creative process and then being present to witness transformations.
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Absolutely and what you put on paper is great. Yes you are a storyteller and a great one at that. And they are the best writers always!!! 🙂 ❤
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Thank you, dear Natalie. I’m deeply grateful for your always kind comments. ❤
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My pleasure dear Carol!!! 🙂 ❤
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If you are not a writer, none of us are.
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Thank you for your kind words, DK. Perhaps it’s just harder to judge one’s writing skills in terms of positive concrete outcomes. When creating a new program to address a social problem like infant mortality, or teaching a class of first generation college students, a synergy develops between all of the people involved. One is able to observe more immediate (and sometimes even longer-lasting) transformative outcomes.
I’m not sure that I can breathe the same kind of spontaneous inventiveness and energy into my writing that is possible in those synergistic face-to-face relational exchanges. But I haven’t given up trying, and I do so appreciate your encouraging comments.
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just a few hipping hopping
drum beats and this
is an anthem
for educating
educators 🙂
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Aw shucks, David. Thank You. 🙂
(I tried to send you a clip art note, but I can’t figure out how to upload an image in a comment.)
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Oh, Carol, if ever there were a time, at least in our short lives, when shared dreams were crucial, it is now! May your work grow!
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Thank you so much for your thoughtful comments, Michael, and for the deep and lovely reflections you share on your blog. ❤
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You are a writer, Carol! What are you talking about? Love the thought behind your words here. Thank you! ❤
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Thank you for your kind words, AmyRose. ❤
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I find it ironic that anyone would write the words, “I’m not really a writer!” I know what you meant. I’ve felt the feeling. It’s hard to overcome, but try. Own your beautiful words. Only you could have written them and infused them with your singular voice!
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Thank you for your lovely comments, Lorna. ❤
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Your post are so encouraging, especially for me. I try to drink in all of your advice and expertise. Thank you for sharing and also for following my humble blog. :o)
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Thank you for your lovely comments, Patricia. This morning, I was delighted to see the newest chapter of the story you’ve just begun. I always look forward to reading your fascinating work. ❤
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The most daunting thing for a writer is the blank paper or white screen, and the writer’s bravest act is to write that first line. One of the great writers (I can’t recall who) said they write so they know what they think, and I believe that. It’s not until you put that pen to paper that you uncover who you are. Oh, and you are a writer.
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It’s always a delight to hear from you, Jim. Yes,it is a challenge to figure out where to begin even when stories or poetry are aching to be written. The words that emerge do tell us a lot about ourselves. I appreciate your kindness and insights. Thank you. ❤
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