Microaggressions

A microaggression I experienced this week was at school.  The entire student population gets free breakfast in the morning.  One of the students was saying that they didn't like the choices that were being served on that particular day.  One of the other teachers said to me "these children are so ungrateful and they should be happy that they are even getting breakfast.  It is free what do they expect". 
I was shocked to hear this.  I understand that it seems ungrateful, but they are children and they don't understand that the reason they are getting breakfast at school is because their parents don't make enough money.

I have learned that as teachers we really need to be mindful of what we say, as well as, how we say it.  Sometimes the tone of our voice can be misconstrued.  If students overheard what the other teacher was saying their feelings would have been hurt.

Evacuation

If I had to be moved to another country the three items I would choose to bring with me would be:
a bible, photo album, and American flag.  I would take the bible to help remind me of my faith and to stay true to my beliefs.  I would take a photo album because I know eventually my mind would fade, but photos could remind me of past memories and finally I would take the flag to explain how everyone from the U.S. are entitled to their freedom and are able to make their own choices.  If I could only take one item I would choose to take the photo album only because you can't get back the memories that have been captured within the photos, but I would not be too upset if this was the only item I could bring with me. 

I have learned that I am not a materialistic person and even though I would be sad to have to leave the U.S. I would be excited to see how other countries live.