Last night, one of my birth children (as opposed to one of my 150 school children) did not feel well. This one is stoic, never a whiner or complainer. We immediately took him to the doctor who helpfully pointed out that the child definitely had pain with no known cause.
This morning, my child was in more pain. My husband worked later today and was dropping off another birth child close to the doctor's office, so hubby volunteered for doctor duty.
This caused a dilemma for me. Emotionally, I wanted to be with my baby. Rationally, I knew that I could not do anything for my child that my husband was not doing well already. I went to school and left my cell phone on, explaining the situation to my students and warning them that I would take calls as necessary.
It turns out that my child had a simple, minor issue that will probably resolve itself over the next few days. My husband had the chance to actively participate in childcare without my overbearing presence, and my son saw a man acting as a capable and competent primary caregiver. My students saw my dedication to them (though with a baseline essay today, most probably lacked the proper appreciation;), and they witnessed firsthand how the value I place on being present impacts my decisions (my first rule is "Be here").
All around, it turned out to be a great decision. But it was an awfully difficult decision to make at 6 am this morning. I dragged myself through the 45 minute commute with half my soul with my husband and ailing child because I truly believe that the first step to being great is being around. I wanted my students to see that value in action, and I wanted them to benefit from it.
What motivates you to show up every day? Why do you make the commute and sacrifices when you have other claims on your time?
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