“It is not often that someone comes along who is a true friend and a good writer.”
― E.B. White, Charlotte’s Web
This morning before I left the house, I was listening to a radio show in which Dr. Tieraona Low Dog mentioned that those who have good friends have lower health risks and greater healing properties. At that moment, I told my husband, “You know, this means I can never quit my job. That’s where my friends are, and I need to stay healthy.”
I thought about that all day as I spent my Saturday with other language arts teachers and literacy specialists, many of whom are fellow Teacher Consultants with the Northstar of Texas Writing Project. These friends inspire me to learn, to examine, to innovate, to listen, to speak up.
My deepest bonds are with other people who can wield words—who love language. I am drawn to friends like this; I know I am safe. I know that I can be myself—I can use words rather than hide them.
And of course, word lovers are people who read, and there is always common ground with other book lovers. There is always a world to share or remember or to recommend.
Today, these friends are my celebration. Thank you all.
Teach It Slant 