Article May 14, 2001 Issue

What do you have time to see?

By Rosalie Isenbarger

She would frequently come to my desk, stay after class, and arrive early before school to talk with me. "I just don't have time for this right now," I thought. "I have papers to grade, tomorrow's lesson plan to finalize, and the bulletin board to change. I have a committee meeting in 15 minutes. How can I take time to talk to her right now?"

I didn't want to hurt her feelings, but I knew something had to be done. She looked very sensitive, and I thought if I spoke to her about this, she would probably feel rejected. And rejection can cause a lot of pain, especially when you're 13 years old.

Looking back on this, I can't believe that I wasn't thinking those thoughts even for a moment. Brushing her off just wasn't kind, and I really did enjoy helping my students. But I was pressed for time. When I saw that my frustration was getting me nowhere, I knew I needed to find the right answer for both of us.

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On the way to London . . . safe travel through the fog
May 14, 2001
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