NESSA’S NOTIONS: An Attitude of Gratitude
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By VANESSA W. SNYDER
In the spirit of the holiday, I just want to focus on appreciation and gratitude. Doctoral reflections can wait!
Here’s my “thankful” list, in no particular order:
- I will gather with family again – even though this time it’s just the ones I live with – for another Thanksgiving.
- I have everything I need.
- COVID has given me the gift of additional time to write and research.
- I’m getting closer to completing my doctorate.
- I recognize my process is unique to me and it’s okay.
- My husband is supportive.
- I’m more patient now.
- I believe in my subject matter (Social Emotional Learning and leadership).
- I have the strength and will to keep working.
- My daughters are supportive (most days).
- I’m not discouraged (this week).
- Through my reading, writing, and research, I’m learning and growing.
- I have a great family.
- I have faith in God to sustain me through this journey and everything to come.
I hope and pray that you appreciate your many reasons to be thankful, too, despite anything else. Happy Thanksgiving!
(A former journalist currently working on her doctorate in Social Emotional Learning, Vanessa is a dedicated and passionate educator in the DC Public Schools system. She loves learning, leadership, innovation, collaboration, and discovering new ways to drive student gains and support staff members).
