Putting Some Thought Into It

On this night I’m trying hard to think only of the the hours of rest ahead of me.  And in the morning I’ll try with equal effort to breathe in the unformed day, turning off the part of my brain entitiled, “planner”.  But a thought will push and tug, asking for attention,”Remember, you’ll be starting back to school in a week, better start getting ready.”

It’s yet to be seen how tomorrow’s battle between staying in the moment and planning ahead will win out.  At just the right time I’ve begun reading The Gift of An Ordinary Day by Katrina Kenison.  Each page is a glimpse as the author examines the expectations of the world upon her and her family, and her journey to discover for herself what they need to treasure and how to knock down a new path broken fresh just for their feet.

One area Kenison has put considerable thought is the education of her children.  Though her contemplation never led her to homeschooling, her words are worth considering no matter where your children spend the bulk of their learning hours.

“I’m continually reminded that a real education is not just a simple transformation of information, not a competition, bit a gradual and at times unfathomable process of awakening compassion, deepening understanding, and fostering the development of imagination, curiosity, and will. Learning doesn’t always mean scoring high.  It also means acquiring the tools necessary to take on the most challenging work of all-becoming the person you are meant to be.”

Katrina Kenison, The Gift of An Ordinary Day