Atkinson, Ne Lifestyle and Art Photographer: A Special Moment For A Teacher {Kelsy}

Many people don't know that I have a soft side.  Especially when it comes to my students.  I struggle at times, hesitant to let my guard down in fear that they may misunderstand that as me lowering my expectations for them.  Often, as a result, I don't show the attachment I actually have to them.  They get under my skin sometimes, but more often then not, they find a way into my heart.  Every. single. one. of them does this in his or her own way.  Sappy, yes...I'm letting the cat out of the bag...I have a heart.  I struggle at times to find that delicate balance between pushing and challenging my students... and letting them see that I am a human being, complete with emotions and a life outside of school. After 6 years of teaching I feel that I am finally beginning to figure it out...kinda...maybe?

Ugh,  I digress.

This is Kelsy.  This young lady came to see me a little while back after an extended absence.  She needed a simple head shot for our school yearbook, but because I hadn't seen her for quite some time, we took a few minutes to catch up on what was going on in her life.  She had hit a rough patch, and was making some tough decisions, but in doing so, she had also made some realizations about what she wanted for herself, and after talking with her, my heart swelled in pride at hearing how much she had grown.  These are the moments I live for as a teacher.  These are the moments when I feel that sense of relief.  The moments where I look at a student and think to myself "they are going to be just fine".  

As a teacher, this was one of the most precious moments I could have.  Just a year ago, I didn't hold this philosophy.  I will admit that I was judgmental.  Not because I was not sensitive to what young mothers face, but because I was confused and frustrated about what my reaction was supposed to be.  After a great deal of reflection, I realized that I needed to find some compassion.  I realized that I needed to show support, encouragement, and love, so that I could be a source of support rather than of discouragement.  There are many who of course will disagree with me on this, and that is ok.  This is simply the place where I have landed on this subject.  Through experiences I have encountered over the last year, I find myself seeing things differently.  I am comfortable with where I stand, and while I know my perceptions have not always been what they are now, I hope that others will consider evolution of thought necessary to sustain growth in a human being, not hypocrisy.

I talked to Kelsy's mom, and we made some arrangements to meet for a mini session.  Kelsy needed some beautiful images to help her document her new journey, and I did my best to make some for her. I hope they may be a reminder of the beginning of this most important transition.  

Kelsy, you are embarking on a new journey in life.  I'm proud of you, and I wish you the best of luck with your future.  You are beautiful and you have SO much potential!  Oh, the places you can go! Please stay in touch!