Do you ever wonder...

I wonder all the time.  

My mind is always turning and I am always thinking about why things are the way they are and what could be done to improve various situations that are dysfunctional...

Right now, I wonder why I bother.  Mind you, I realize I am writing this to no one...

I've been really frustrated with systematic things lately - things that I can not change on my own.  I get consumed with wondering why I bother going out of my way when so few care.

But that's just it - I CARE.  I place value in the reflection process I go through to write this blog.  I place value on the opportunities I pursue for my students.  I place value on the big projects that shape my practice even if the people who sign my check don't bother to notice.  I place value on my involvement with the larger arts community. 

I believe in reflection.  I believe in promoting student art programs.  I believe in public art projects.  I believe in the impact the arts can have on the community.  These beliefs are part of my identity.  They are part of who I am as an educator and who I am as a person.  

I have to remember this because I will not let a dysfunctional system change who I am.