Wednesday was a very odd day. It seemed like everyone came to school out of sorts, myself included. The day did not feel right. Maybe something was in the atmosphere or we were all feeling the full moon. I gave out more conduct marks than I had all year and it just wasn’t right. No matter how much breathing, thinking, and quiet we had we just couldn’t get and keep it together.
Our counselor came to visit with us at 2:00 to meet the new kids and discuss her role as counselor. Even she commented about how the class didn’t feel right. She read a book called Have you Filled a Bucket Today? By Carol McCloud. The book discusses how we all have invisible buckets that we fill for each other through kind words, acts and general kindness. The book also talks about not being a “bucket dipper” or a person who takes good feelings from others by unkind words or actions. I listened to the discussion with the kids and prayed this would sink in. Thursday was a better day and then came Friday.
We are ALL happy for Friday.
I have a child who at times has some difficulty self monitoring behavior and emotions. He presents a particular challenge some days, but he has a very good heart and can be extremely affectionate and helpful. He handed me a note he had written in the car. A note he wouldn’t let his mom read. I read the note and immediately hugged him. His note about how he felt about me and our class was so genuine and heartfelt it made my day. After I read it and hugged him tight, he said “I filled your bucket! I could see it!”, and he certainly did.
I encourage you to look for this book or talk to your kids about what it means to be a bucket filler or a bucket dipper. You might be surprised at their answers…by the way…I haven’t received as many love notes as I did today! I guess my friend made a big impression on the entire class!
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