Happy Friday, friends! How is it possible that time can feel like it’s both dragging along and flying by? I’ve been working at my old school in Massachusettes since late June, and here we are with just one week left before I head back home to Chicago. I honestly never thought I’d see the finish line. I love it up here and it’s been so incredible reconnecting with old friends and making new ones, but there’s nothing like being in your own bed and in your own space, right? We also have Saturday classes, so it’ll be really nice to have a real weekend and just enjoy my summer before starting a new graduate program this fall. It’s hard to believe this may very well be the last time I teach English, so I’m definitely savoring every moment. How are you spending your summer break? Comment below, and without further adieu, here are two of my favorite finds of the week. Have a great weekend!
For encouragement…one of my Spelman sisters made waves earlier this year when a video she and her third graders made went viral. Every morning, Jasmyn leads her students through a confidence boosting exercise that not only helps them focus, but also (and more importantly) empowers them to work hard and persist. I don’t know about you, but we need more teachers encouraging our young people to believe in themselves and to keep pushing, especially when it feels challenging. Now, she and her kiddos are featured in this Gap Kids ad and tutorial, just in time for the new school year. This is the perfect motivational mantra to start your day, no matter your age! Push through.
For wellness…watch Refinery29’s Lucie Fink commit to and test out five natural remedies, one of which is acupuncture. I have a friend who SWEARS by acupuncture, but I’m not sure I’m brave enough. I will definitely try the DIY facial scrub and therapeutic aromatherapy play dough! Have you tried or would you try a natural remedy?
For inspiration…while this isn’t a new video, it is new to me and feels extremely relevant to all that I’ve been experiencing and revealing. At Smith College’s 2017 commencement, THE Oprah Winfrey shared some major keys, my favorite being to make it our purpose to serve with purpose. We have to know our truths and align ourselves and who we are with what we do. We have to use our talents and gifts to serve, and we only discover this by being still and quieting ourselves. That’s authentic empowerment!
Kermit Says... 