Today I had the priveledge to hear author Joan Bauer speak passionately about her books, writing, and reaching the vulnerable children in our lives. She spoke of the gifts our students possess and how we as teachers cannot fail them. What really grabbed a hold of me was when Mrs. Bauer talked about humor and despair sitting on the same couch in life.  And who’s sitting in the middle? Hope.

Next week I will be working in Zambia at Shine Reading Academy, filled with hope, determined to reach the resilient children sitting before me. As I try to understand the despair in their lives, I’ll bring humor and joy into the classrooms. We will laugh together as we read and write. What will I be looking for in the middle of it all? Hope.