The students have to complete 8 phases from a
therapy book in order to graduate from Red Cliff. Each phase has a
variety of tasks including reading, values discussions, writing, and
survival skills.
On phase 8 the students are required to offer a gift to anyone of their choosing. The gift has to be well thought out, and include a note that explains why the recipient is important to them. Giving a gift is a big milestone for many Red Cliff students, especially the majority who grow up feeling entitled to their hearts desire.
This week a surprising note came to me. My all-time most challenging student, the one I've learned the most from, the student who dislikes me more than any other student; gave me a gift. This notorious student is none other than the Sally from the previous post. Woah...
This gift was a much appreciated validation on the power of patience, acceptance, confidence, and letting go. I certainly did not shine during every interactions with Sally. I was weary, needed breaks, made mistakes, and doubted. Working with Sally made being in the adult ego state a nearly constant struggle.
That struggle was worth it. I feel bigger now, and something in the way we interacted must have helped Sally grow too. In her note to me Sally thanked me for my help and support. Sally said she appreciated her time with me and wished me a life of joy.
Below is a photo of the bracelet she made me out of hemp and beads.
On phase 8 the students are required to offer a gift to anyone of their choosing. The gift has to be well thought out, and include a note that explains why the recipient is important to them. Giving a gift is a big milestone for many Red Cliff students, especially the majority who grow up feeling entitled to their hearts desire.
This week a surprising note came to me. My all-time most challenging student, the one I've learned the most from, the student who dislikes me more than any other student; gave me a gift. This notorious student is none other than the Sally from the previous post. Woah...
This gift was a much appreciated validation on the power of patience, acceptance, confidence, and letting go. I certainly did not shine during every interactions with Sally. I was weary, needed breaks, made mistakes, and doubted. Working with Sally made being in the adult ego state a nearly constant struggle.
That struggle was worth it. I feel bigger now, and something in the way we interacted must have helped Sally grow too. In her note to me Sally thanked me for my help and support. Sally said she appreciated her time with me and wished me a life of joy.
Below is a photo of the bracelet she made me out of hemp and beads.
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