Reflections on 2016

Thoughts & Reflections

It’s been quite a year.

The children perpetually remind us that every day is new, every day is building on yesterday, every day is preparing for tomorrow.

That being said, the hanging of a new calendar, the scribbling out of the mis-written year until you remember how to write the date, the freshness of it all is such a natural time for reflection.

We all had so much to be joyful, thankful, heartwarmed by this year. Here are a few of those reflections.

Across the room, I saw a child carefully washing windows, oblivious to all that was happening around him. The pause this inspired seemed to stretch forever. How much has this child grown this past year?! How many of these breathtaking moments have we been present to, for each child?

When I first came, I spent a significant amount of time observing. I was absolutely captivated by the children, and didn’t spend as much time watching the adults. Now, I am able to help create this space for these children, and to watch them grow and change is amazing.

When teams learn how to share the same brain, new ideas emerge more spontaneously — and, seemingly, naturally.

There were moments when it really felt like we found our groove, like we were riding a tandem bike together, pulling oars perfectly in sync. It really felt wonderful to be part of that momentum.

Well, I only joined this team this year, but it feels like so much longer than that! It’s been amazing, awe-inspiring, to learn from so many different people. We’re all unique, but we’re working with the same goal in mind — to help the children. I didn’t realize what I didn’t know, and it’s awesome to learn more daily!

I’m thankful for the growth of this year. In myself, in the children, in our team.

This year, our theme was #WeGotThis

We can’t wait for 2017. See you there!

Love,

Baan Dek