For Good

As a familiar song from the musical Wicked states... "I've heard it said that people come into our lives for a reason, bringing something we must learn if we let them. And we help them in return."

I truly believe that each and every person we met on this 10 day journey has touched our lives and given us something to bring back to the east coast whether it be hope, appreciation for nature, patience, etc. 

I think about Ruth living with such an open heart and endless generosity. I want to adapt some of it into my life. I realized, listening to her talk about kinship, that it is something that we all could use a little more of in the society that we live in. Sure, we have our friends and family, but rather than just tolerance of other people, we need acceptance and a welcoming attitude just as Ruth had. 

Judging by what Ms. Bormann said about the texts from Evelyn, I also believe that we came into the lives of Evelyn and Ruth for a reason. (relating back to "and we help them in return.")

However, I don't think that the only people who had a great impact on my experience these past 10 days were Ruth, Evelyn, Andrew, the Cortese's, and the students we met. I think that getting to know you all -as in students/teachers- has also helped me enjoy the experience more and more. Maybe I would have felt this way after spending 10 days with all of you anywhere, but I really think that the places in which we spent them together has helped me see how much I appreciate you all. Part of me is kind of wishing that I had another year at Gill to get to know you more. That is not possible, but I hope everyone will keep in touch with me! 

Hannah and Emily: Have a wonderful time during the next three years! Trust me, it goes fast!

Laura and Nick: Junior year will have its tough times, but you'll get through it and do GREAT! Good luck and have fun :) 

Jess, Sophie, Liv, Natalie, and Jake: Senior year.... woah. I hope you all enjoy your last year of high school! It'll go by so fast. Enjoy it! It's such an exciting time with college and everything. Feel free to contact me if you ever visit UDel :)

Maggie, Christian, and Malcolm: I'll miss you all during graduation. (I hope you miss me too) Good luck next year and I hope we all stay in touch for a long time. Maggie: road trip thing is totally happening. COLLEGE!?!?!?!?!!??! Oh my goshhh!!

Ms. McGrover and Mr. Hodgeson: I never had either of you as a teacher, but I am so glad that I got to know you during this Unit! Thank you so much for making my last Unit unforgettable. 

Ms. Bormann: Words can not describe how thankful I am to you for making this Unit possible. We were able to do things that most people will never be able to do. You made this experience one of a kind. I truly am grateful. 

So to wrap up one of the greatest experiences in my life....

Alright so I'm sorta stealing Ms. McGrover's idea and just making this post to thank you all for an amazing experience. I'm not going to repeat what I said during the second de-breifing because I really do hope you remembered what I shared with you... and I'm not gonna lie, it was really hard for me to share that with all those other kids and adults in the room, but I felt so comfortable with all of you, I think that may have made it easier to explain. So thanks for being a friend, and making my first Unit absolutely amazing and something I will never forget. We've had so many laughs, good times, and memories and I'm glad that we had such a good group. I'll miss those leaving this year and I'm happy that next year, I'll see some more friendly faces in the halls.

Good Bye... Adios.... Auf Wiedersehen... Peace. <3

What I Have Gathered...

This trip has given me so much to take away from. Every experience has provided me with something new to understand. Coming out to New Mexico and Arizona was the greatest way to escape the craze and chaos of life on the East coast. The warmth and kindness that is shown by the people here is much more powerful than the people back home. To see and experience the lives of Andrew, Joyce, Ruth, Evelyn, and Polly truly shows me that focusing on the large things in life is the way to go. The Navajo people base their lives around kinship (K é), balance of the soul and connection between the human spirit and the Earth . I believe that the Navajo people, with their on living culture have a mental and physical tie with the Earth. The land of the reservation and the canyon speaks to you. You can feel it radiating the love back that has been given to it over the years. You don't get that in New Jersey even if you are in a beautiful preserve or park. There is such a powerful feeling that is perceived from the land and the animals and the people. Their spirit radiates and empowers. As I walked Mrs. Roessel's property on the reservation, a sense of calm washed over me. I felt my inner self become centered and pulled into one. That is one thing that the Navajo people focus on: balance. To know that an 80 year old woman accepted 13 high school students into her home, is one of the most humbling thoughts. The Navajo people are so willing to give back and that is something that we all need to observe and strive harder to do. To see Andrew walk the canyon and descend the mountain face was breath taking. As we followed behind, stumbling and weary, he carelessly flowed down the twisted and rocky paths. When he walked through the trees, he effortlessly found the most comfortable place to step in the sand. When he plodded through the water, his jeans never got a drop of water on them. These are just the beginning of examples of how the Navajo people have an incredible bond with their Mother Earth. The Mother Earth that they have worked so amazingly hard to acquire a relation with. This trip has been an eye opening experience and is something that I will never forget. ♥

To the most incredible group of people

Spending these past 10 days with you all has been a life-changing experience. I would like to take some time, as I sit in this Super 8 Motel in Fort Sumner, to say a little something to each and every one of you. I am so grateful for this amazing opportunity to have spent with you all. I have gained so much as a teacher, a mentor, and a fellow human being. You have all touched me in some significant way that shakes me to my core.

Gary: you must be, by far, the coolest dude I have ever met. Thank you for sharing your stories with me on the open road. Thank you for driving us all over the desert, and for taking us to the movies... twice. Haha. I will never forget the warmth and genuine kindness you have shown us on this trip.

Dave: I wish I knew you better before this Unit. You are an amazing educator, someone who really thinks about what we should be doing and why we should be doing it. You are real with the kids, and that has shown me to be more real, too. Please keep in touch next year.

Christian: What an incredible young man you are. I have never met such a respectful, honest, and genuine high schooler before. You blow me away. You are not just kind because it's what you should do... You are kind because you genuinely care. Thank you for sharing your gifts of song, humor, kindness and compassion with me on this Unit.

Malcolm: You have wonderful insights into other people. Although you are at times quiet, it is your constant inquisitive nature that strikes me. Thank you for sharing your interests with me. It has been such a pleasure getting to know you.

Hayley: Thank you for your laughter, deep compassion and kindness throughout this trip. You have shared some of your loves with me... Such as hiking... And I truly hope that we will remain in contact wherever your life takes you. Thank you.

Maggie: I'm not going to lie, I see myself in you a little. Haha. You are crazed with laughter and joy, yet remain respectful and insightful. I cannot thank you enough for allowing me to let go and laugh, and enjoy what we have all experienced together on this incredible journey. I know I have only known you for 10 days, but I will miss you terribly next year. Please keep in touch, and stay true to who you are and what you believe in always.

Natalie: I have really learned how sweet, caring, funny, and eager you are on this trip. I know I had you in class, but nothing compares to the imprint you have left on me here. Your honesty and devotion to doing what is right makes me reflect on my own thoughts and behaviors. Thank you for talking to me as a person. I have learned a great deal from you, and I hope you have learned from me too.

Jake: Ms. Summers said you were awesome, but she had it all wrong... You are way more than that. Our conversations in the Canyon de Chelly really opened my eyes to who you are. I cannot thank you enough for just being yourself. You are so incredibly talented and genuinely caring, honest, funny, and insightful. There were times on this Unit, I'm not gonna lie, that I felt exhausted, drained, and like I just had enough... But all I had to do was look at you and see the fire in your eyes and the love you had for all that you were experiencing in order to wake up and realize the amazing opportunities and experiences that lay right in front of me. Thank you.

Jess: first of all, your name rocks. Haha. But seriously... I knew you were awesome when I had you in class, but spending time with you on this Unit has been amazing. You have shown me your love of nature, life, laughter, and joy. I know there must have been times on the res that you felt drained, dirty, and... well, maybe just didnt want to be there anymore... but you still dove straight in with this passion to learn and grow. Thank you for sharing this with me.

Liv: Although you may appear to be quiet on the outside, you have spoken loudly and clearly through your actions on this Unit. After reading your blog earlier, I found myself choking up. You have gained so much from this incredible experience, and I want you to know that I have gained a lot too. Thank you for coming on this Unit and being a part of it.

Sophie: this week has been particularly difficult for both of us. I know we have not spoken about it to each other, but I want you to know how much I genuinely respect, admire, and honor you for keeping a smile on your face and going through this Unit with laughter and interest. The other night at dinner you almost made me spit my drink across the table more than twice. You are a very courageous and fun-loving person with so much to give, and I thank you for sharing that with me.

Laura: I did not really know you before this, but I am so glad that I know you now. Sometimes I look at students from Gill who get involved with community service, etc, and I ask myself... Are you doing this for the resume or because it is your calling? You have a calling. You have shown me a part of yourself that wants to give without a need for reward. You would spend time getting to know everyone, including me, and sharing yourself and all your gifts with us. Thank you for coming on this Unit.

Nick: although Hodge nicknamed you Billy Sky because of your last name, he has done so aptly. You do reach for the stars. You have surprised me time and time again on this trip with your talents, insights, and laughter. Thank you for being a part of this fantastic journey.

Emily: I did not really know you before this Unit, but I am very happy to have been given the opportunity to get to know you. We have a great deal in common, and I have enjoyed learning from you. Your latest blog made me smile so wide. I am so happy you came on this trip.

Hannah: thank you for giving me the opportunity to get to know you outside of the classroom. You have so many ideas, insights, and different perspectives. I feel like you have grown a great deal on this trip, and I know that I have grown from spending time with you too.


And I have saved the best for last...

Tammy: Words cannot express my gratitude. You are truly one of the most beautiful and inspiring person I have ever met. I know that I have gained so much from my experiences on this incredible journey with my students and fellow teachers, but I am truly grateful for having been given the opportunity to meet and learn from you. You have taught me the value of listening and patience. I have been humbled time and time again in your presence. You are the rock to this Unit. You have provided so much for so many these past 10 days... and all the days up to this in the planning and preparations. When you introduced me as your fellow colleague to Evelyn, I found myself almost near tears. Thank you for accepting me into this sacred space that is your life. Thank you for showing me the beauty in things I have overlooked. Thank you for this opportunity. No matter where our paths may take us, I hope to always stay in touch.



Thank you everyone for your warmth, generosity, and compassion. Thank you all for your laughter and joy. Thank you all for listening and for speaking. I cannot possibly express my sincere gratitude.

Love,
Jess

If I could talk to a Bosque Redondo prisoner...

...you'll see Canyon de Chelly again - Stay Strong.

The Past Three (or four?) Days: A Novel

Because I LOVE blogging sooooooooooo much, I'm making tonight's post extra long and filled with every little detail of the past few days which I have missed. (for that I am sorry, but I can't just make internet appear everywhere) sorry if there are mistakes, I'm tired and writing a lot.... so.....

Let's start off with a question:
Have you ever slept on dirt?

Well I have, even before this trip.... and that first time, it was a terrible experience.... hence the fact I was in the middle of a humid forest listening to mosquitoes buzz around my ears all night...

However, sleeping in a hogan was a rather a interesting and more positive experience. To be honest, yet not to brag for I know not everyone actually slept, I slept pretty well... This might have been the result of the hours of baseball we played that day on the reservation (I pitched) or the heat and dryness... My bet would be the baseball... That can take the breath right away from you. Maybe it's both, I don't know... So before even falling asleep, what should I have decided to do....? Stargaze? What an excellent idea.

Stargazing in Arizona is so much better than in Jersey, let me tell you... in Jersey you look up and see four? five? if you're lucky; six stars? maybe the big dipper? Well in the middle of a dessert, with barely any lights, and a whole lot of nothing, you don't have to look further than the tree line to see at least one star. It's like a blanket of stars over you, everywhere you look there's a new constellation or cluster of stars. Some of us, (cough, cough) tried star tripping.... which resulted in many thorns the the feet and dizziness, but it was all fun in the end.... We were even lucky to see a few shooting stars, which was an exciting experience, by the sound of everyones screams and squeals, for the entire group.

This was followed by two more days on the reservation filled with making Fry Bread, an explanation of the Navajo culture, as well as learning a bit of the language, and a new addition to our many sports; soccer. Also it was Jake's birthday and we celebrated and we had cake and it was really fun, and a surprise so, yay!

So of course every trip has it's breath-taking, mind-boggling, favorite, never-forget experience... If you've been on a trip without one, think harder, but this unit's one, for me, was Canyon de Chelly. For the first part of the visit, we drove around the rim, looking at some cool views, interesting sites, the whole shi-bang, but I think the best part was when we actually started to hike down INTO the canyon... People still live in it, and I don't blame them... the view from everywhere along that 5 (ish) mile hike was absolutely beautiful. Along this hike, I saw what a lot of people don't normally get to see, and this was ancient pictures on the walls of the canyon, which were up pretty high, which makes me wonder how on earth they got up there.. but anyway the walk was beautiful and at one point we were able to take off our shoes and walk through the river... That was really fun, especially running through puddle-like sections and not realizing how deep they were and totally just soaking our shorts. I'd post pictures like some other people on here, but I do not have my connector thing.... so that's not an option... don't get me wrong, I'd love to post a few, but I can't... ANYWAY aside from the rocks and drawings and such, we saw some wild horses every so often which is just so rare.... and beautiful.. and majestic.. and now I'm just blabbering about horse beauty...

So today (well the first half is going to look like nothing compared to the hike and stuff....) we sat on the bus for 8 hours and retraced the Long Walk... Once arriving in Fort Sumner, we went to a ranch and met up with local high school students... yes at first, like many first encounters with other people after seeing the same faces everyday for about a week, this was a little awkward but after eating and cooking and doing some experimenting, we all sorta got to know each other and it was really fun, and we had a good time... During this fun time I won Ninja... On the cultural side of the night my group created some sort of dough and bacon salad thing and coffee, which we drained using a plastic bag... it was definitely interesting... So hopefully we will have as much fun at this ranch tomorrow as we did today..

So good bye.... Adios.... Auf Wiedersehen... Peace.

The power of Navajo

There is not enough to say about the last three days. In fact there are not enough words in the english alphabet to possibly describe the stay on the Navajo Reservation. Staying in a Hogan at Ruth Roeseel's was much like the hike in Bandelier. It too, was completely humbling. After sleeping on a dirt floor for two nights, every bed whether it be stiff or too soft feels like a heavenly mattress. Getting past the actual sleeping arrangements, her home and Navajo ways were so natural. The way in which she was attached to the Mother Earth and Father Sky touched each and everyone of our souls. I know it certainly made me more whole as a person. I may not fully understand the connections she and her friends Evelyn and Polly do, but I have learned much more about our planet and life on earth and the ties we have with a greater power.

After two days of humble living we began our trek through the Canyon De Chelly. Andrew, our guide was one of the most spiritual men i have ever met. The way he walked was so connected with the world. On our hike through the puddle filled river bed i attempted to follow his very steps. At first i was only trying to copy his patterns and natural rhythm, but eventually I learned that his body naturally found and traveled over the softest areas of sand that the trail could provide. No one could have spotted it with their eyes and even with our shoes off most people could not find it, but Andrew naturally knew where the softest sand to walks across was located. It absolutely rocked my world. Also his footsteps made no excessive splashes like the rest of our group. It was as if the water reacted to his footsteps with compassion. Now I have heard of wild indian powers and native mystics, but never in my life have i actually experienced it. This Man, our personal tour guide for the day, which is astonishing in itself (thanks to Mrs. Paris) was a real life Navajo legend. He has forever inspired me and for that I am thankful.

O yeah the canyon was too beautiful to describe so I am not even going to try