Back to Phase One....

As I sit in my classroom at "A" High School on a hectic Monday. 

I felt an inclination to reflect on the past month and-a-half of my life as a teacher.
Though teaching, learning, and grading, did happen, 

"Lack of Focus" was probably what took place the most. 

I had allowed my personal issues get the best of my professional life.

I had told myself time and time again to FOCUS and GET YOUR S#$% TOGETHER 

but, it has been more than difficult. 

So, today, as I always do with my cute kids. I shared a little bit of my personal life
( in hopes of redeeming some of my ...lack)
It was my boy drama. LOL (yes, I do have plenty) 

Kids, being kids were all ears. Some thought it was ridiculous that I shared but some were ready to give the best advice ever. I always only share just enough to get them to spark some interest in staying in my class. 

While the story was being told, I had shared about betrayal and dishonesty (lying and cheating to be exact)

I explained to the students, 

I somehow survived through my mini-depression 

Regained some of my confidence and stability 

and am able to laugh about it, finally. 

I didn't really know why I felt a tug in my heart to mention it in class until one of my favorite girls in class had blurt out that the exact situation just had happened to her last night. 

In high school, this is the moment where you say, "OMG. No kidding!"

She shared her story. It hurts. and I know it hurts. 

I know how deteriorating it is to a girl's self worth, esteem, and value.
It takes a part of our dignity away. It really sucks. 

I wrote her a post-it note that said, "Remember, you are a beautiful girl. It is always his loss. You know yourself that you had put in your all towards the relationship. He did not have the capacity to take it all. He is not worth your time. He is not enough for you. You are beautiful and you deserve a man that will bring out all and every hidden gems in you. I know you still care and love for this gentleman. It is okay to still care and love just do yourself a favor and let go. Close your eyes, breathe, and let go."

My mistake. My experience. My problems. My emotions. My past. 

all allows me to understand

Their (students') mistakes. Their experience. Their problems. Their emotions. and Their now.  

I can only be thankful.