Since I teach online I do not know what my students look like. This is both an advantage and a disadvantage. I am not swayed by physical characteristics, style of dress, gestures or habits. At the same time, it can be difficult to connect without the benefit of eye contact or physical proximity. That made something that happened today all the more meaningful.
I had a student share with me that he is transgender, having transitioned from female to male. I only know him as a man and had not reason to suspect any secret past. I felt honored that he divulged this piece of his history. I was glad that I had created a safe place for him to do so.
This practice of creating a safe place for others is something that I value, perhaps because I have so often been in search of a safe place myself. I long for that space where I feel comfortable truly being and expressing my true self. I can create that place for others through acceptance. It is good practice, teaching me that I can create a safe place within myself through self-acceptance.
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