Lately, I have been giving a lot of thought to why I keep getting labeled so different as a teacher. Often the word is used to describe me in relation to other educators and just how "different" I am. It seldom appears to be a compliment but more a shunning tool, a way to divide teachers rather than unite us.
So I have had enough of defending myself from the label. Maybe I am diffent, maybe I am not. Either way, the next time I am called different, I will respond with a thank you. I am reclaiming the connotation of the word "different.". No more feeling the need to defend myself or ask questions, just acceptance of the word as a blessing. Who's with me?
