This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine

This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine

This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine

Let it shine, shine, shine

Let it shine!

Everywhere I go, I’m gonna let it shine

Everywhere I go, I’m gonna let it shine

Everywhere I go, I’m gonna let it shine

Let it shine, shine, shine

Let it shine!

One of my favorite songs of all times… a song that brings back memories of smiles, the feeling of happiness, comfort, and warmth, but most of all hope.

In this world, we are surrounded by drops of water just waiting to put out our light. They basque in the hope that they will dim our light. On the other hand, in this world, we are surrounded by igniters ready to share their light. They eagerly await to help us be a better person.

The Droplets

The Droplets respond to the negativity. This negativity is fostered by the “What if…” mentality of experiences that have occurred in less than 5% of a population. They dampen moments of inspiration and are persistent to take you off your path.

In times where you are surrounded by droplets, you must continue to search for the positive in the situation. There are no excuses for the droplets to conquer your light.

The Igniters

The Igniters frolic around spreading their love and magic to all they encounter. This love and magic burns bright and is contagious if you let it be. The Igniters expect for everyone to have an open-mind to growth and progress in situations.

When the Igniters are faced with trials, it is up to them to dig deep for reasons of why… full of how come thoughts. There is no reason to not surround yourself with Igniters. They ONLY make you brighter.

Ignite One and ALL

In our buildings, we could name the Droplets and Igniters. In our classrooms, we could name the students who are Droplets and Igniters. Obviously, we want all to be Igniters, but how?

Build an Igniting Culture

• Let them know that you trust their decisions.
• Let them know you are on their side.
• Give them freedom.
• Surround them with a growth mindset with high expectations.

Give them Igniting Experiences

• Encourage them to take risks, knowing on the other end, there are only reflections, not the fear of being reprimanded.
• Encourage them to lead in something that they feel passionate about.
• Encourage them to own their teaching/learning style.
• Encourage open communication and support.

Provide them an Igniting Environment

• Rethink your space through a creative lens.
• Provide opportunities for them encourage one another.
• Spark curiosities.
• Show flexibility.
• Be open to new ideas… even if they are “poke-the-box”.

Our staff and students deserve Igniters.

They are the game-changers of the world.

They are the innovators of the world.

They are the light of the world.

This little light of mine… I am letting it shine!

Are you?