Inspiration for this post provided by this picture taken on a trip to Costa Rica of the butterfly that has managed to do both blend in and stand out.
We can….
Be afraid of sounding dumb, or ask a question
Do the drill, or be inspired
Blindly trust, or trust your gut
Criticize what you don’t like about others, or be direct and share your knowledge
Let yourself be marginalized, or stand tall and strong for your ideas
Its been a struggle for me to find that balance. I was raised in the 60’s when “children were seen but not heard” and it’s always been difficult for me to move from being the silent one in the background.
I’ve gone from invisible to loud and strident to calm and confident. My goal now is to be blending, collaborating and part of a team while standing out and speaking out for what’s important to me.
Writing is the reason I’m finding my voice. It’s helped me create a place for thinking, reflecting and being myself.
Thank you https://twowritingteachers.wordpress.com for giving me a place where my voice can be heard.
Vanessa's Voice 
It is so nice to hear that others are also working on finding that balance as well! Thank you for sharing.
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There is so much to think about in your post. I love the idea that writing has helped you to find that sweet spot between blending in and standing out. As a child of the 60s myself, I was raised to always be helpful, and NEVER to make waves. But sometimes we’ve got to stir the pot and make those waves. I’ll think about your post today and about how writing impacts my understanding of myself and how I present myself to the world. Thanks so much for sharing this thoughtful reflection.
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Yes! That was my message too! Thanks so much for your comment.
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I love that you have acknowledged that this is a place for you to stand out and share your writing. I wonder if life is not about the balance between the two. I always think, as a leader, that I need to work to blend in so that others can find their voice and share their talents. “It’s not always about me.” I’ve also been given the feedback that sometimes, teachers just want to here me share my thoughts. That’s ok too.
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I can see why they would say that – about wanting to hear your thoughts, your experiences and what you have seen that works for kids.
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Thank you for sharing that your photo both inspired your post as well as being intertwined with it. Through your writing the person I glimpse is both practical, confident, as well as self-doubting. One of the blessings of a journal is a place to look at our doubts and fears. You are so much more than a one dimensional thought or action.
Your reflection allowed me to share your journey and to reflect on similar journeys I have taken to wrestle with my own doubts. Well said.
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Words are powerful tools. I am glad you found your voice! I love the vision of the transformation you have undertaken.
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I am glad that writing helps you find your voice. I was raised not necessarily in a “children should be seen and not heard” climate, but rather a “we don’t talk about that” setting. Similar…
I read a long time ago that we “write to know” – it is the very act of writing that helps us find our stance on the world around us, it helps us articulate our feelings and emotions and our attitudes. Glad this is your experience too!
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Yes! It’s so true, My emotions and truth seem to reveal themselves.
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I remember trying to stand out and blend in as an educator. It is hard balancing act. I love your picture. We both love taking photos of butterflies. Thanks for visiting today.
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