We all know the students who need that extra hug or that kind comment. As a teacher, I truly love my students. Although at times they can be frustrating, I would do anything for my students and I affectionately refer to them as my kids.
For the last five years my love has gone to the 130 "kids" I have each year. This year; however, I have not met my students because I am lucky enough to have had an amazing experience. About a month ago, I had a kid of my own.
They say that there is no love like the love you have for your child. I always understood this phrase to an extent but now that I have a child of my own this phrase has taken on so much more meaning.
I never before thought that I could love something or someone as much as I love my son. Holding him in my arms is like nothing I have ever experienced before. Every face he makes, every noise that comes out, every time be moves his arms, my heart just melts.
Like I said, I now know the true meaning of that phrase. That phrase means that I will do anything for my son. I would give my life to protect him, I will hug and kiss him as much as I can, and I will tell him "I love you" every day. My life changed the day he came into this world and it will never be the same and for that I am beyond thankful and blessed!
With that in mind, the unfortunate reality is that some of our students will never feel this type of love at home. No matter the reason, every child deserves to feel loved. So every day you walk into school, remember this. Recall the love you have for your children, nieces and nephews, brothers and sisters, whatever the case may be and love your students each day.
Even in the days that you think you might just snap, remind yourself that the biggest challenges in your class are the kids that need the most love. Give them that extra hug or high five and treat them the way you would want your own children to be treated!