Digital Connection

There are times when I realize that our digital world can connect us. Today is one of those times. I spent a wonderful hour or so with my National Writing Project peeps working through some issues on digital portfolios. I would not be able to do this work without minds greater than my own. I got a glimpse into Paul Hankins classroom, looking at the progress he is making on creating his classroom library. His posts inspire my own work, the books that he highlights, the powerful thoughts he shares and the library space he is building.

And there is Stephanie Loomis who is now Dr. Loomis, who inspires me every day to write more, to take on new challenges, and to exercise because she keeps posting those damn running photos reminding me that cardio is probably a good idea. These humans are important, and although many of us have yet to meet in person, they are no less influential than people in my daily life.

I follow authors like Paul Reynolds, Peter Reynolds, Cornelius Minor, Angie Thomas, Brene Brown, and Gae Polisner who are brilliant and thoughtful humans who share not only their work but the thoughts on what is going on in the world. I rely on them to be the voice of positivity and reason in these trying times. They may not know it, but there is a connection in my work and theirs. And to whoever posted this illustration, it says it all, I would give you credit but I am unsure where it came from. I know it touched my heart today. I am grateful for your post.

I know that technology has the power to divide and disconnect, and there has been so much of that lately. But we must take back our digital spaces, and use them to build others up, not tear them down. So those of you who post positivity on Instagram and Facebook, thank you. And I love keeping up with your summer travels or support you through some serious challenges. On days like today, it has made all the difference to check in with my digital friends.

This summer I am focused on creating a new digital space for my program. I have been doing a lot of research, and planning, and it is time to get busy and build the space. In creating my digital space for my students this fall, I am focusing on what connects me to others, and how can I create that same supportive space for my students to thrive and build their own digital community. Thanks for the continued inspiration.