Care
Taking care of ourselves and others can make for a rich life! But caring is no small task. I have learned that caring is many things and comes in many different ways. Caring for me is compassion. Caring requires commitment, listening, energy and empathy. To care may require a lot of patience at times or be as simple as an offer of a cup of tea!
I have always had an interest in the area of care and how it impacts our lives, especially young people. Effective practices and systems that promote a caring environment are good for everyone! So, how do we really care for each other? How does it show up?
In my experience I think there are two very important elements involved. The gift of time and listening. I have underestimated the value of listening at times in my life and yet it has consistently shown to be one of the most valuable gifts you can give to someone, including yourself! I have come to realise that giving time to people and pure listening are possibly the two most valuable ways in which I can show people I care. It gives space for them to say how they need to be cared for.
Pastoral Care
I believe that pastoral care is so important in education and is stated by the powers that be, that every student should experience pastoral care. As parents, teachers and grown ups we know how young people, who are at the the centre of their learning, thrive if they are cared for and supported! When spaces are created for care, we are supporting each other emotionally, socially and spiritually in life and the learning will naturally come! It’s not just academic aspirations that need attention. Pastoral Care means caring for people holistically, taking into account the whole person and helping them to thrive. Care can come in the form of a holding space for uncertainties or life events and accompanying the person in whatever is going on for them. In my experience, we learn to value ourselves if we are also shown value.
I have learned that caring accompanies the person and it is powerful. I have often said in various situations that I would like a magic wand to make things better but alas, there is none! All I can do for now is show that I care and maybe that starts with a simple cup of tea!