Inocente

As I began my last workday before heading into the Thanksgiving holiday I found myself searching for inspiration.  I'm grateful for my family and friends every day...and though I typically find this to be "enough," this year I wanted something more.

As the day commenced, I decided to change up my lesson plan in hopes of finding something special to leave my students with today; something they might consider as they sit down with their families to give thanks in the days to come.  I'm not sure exactly how it happened -- the idea came out of nowhere.  As I sat at my desk searching my brain for something to do that would be appropriate for the season, whilst not breaking any religious rules, it came to me.

Earlier this year at the Oscars there was one particular film that caught my eye.  After watching the Oscars I searched for it immediately, only to find out it hadn't yet been released.  Today I had to use Google to figure out the name of the film...all I could remember was that it had to do with a young Latina girl and her art.

What. A. Find.  Today I was able to share the heartwarming, sometimes sad, poignant story of this young woman with my classes.  And I tell you this -- you could have heard a pin drop in any one of my four classes.  Now, that would be a great thing on a normal day...on the day before Thanksgiving break, it was A-MA-ZING!

I urge you all, when you have forty minutes (and maybe some tissue), take a look at "Inocente."  This story of a 15 year-old homeless girl who follows her passion to create art is endearing. Her journey leads you through many difficult situations, high and low emotions, and in the end leaves you inspired.  I can't recommend it enough.  In fact, I bought the film on iTunes this afternoon.

As an aside, I must share that as well as this turned out today, technology does not always happen easily in the classroom.  During my first class of the day today, this was no exception.  Without fail when I plan any kind of lesson with technology something goes wrong.  After a half an hour trying to get the film to load a miracle happened and we were able to get started.  Can I tell you what it's like to have 42 freshmen sitting and waiting for you to get the ball rolling?  One thing is for certain -- it's not quiet.  At all.  The librarian was able to give me a longer cord so we were able to be hooked into the network as opposed to using the wireless connection.  Not sure what else he did, but, it finally worked.  Phew!

I wish you all a wonderful Holiday Weekend with your family, friends and loved ones.  Travel safely, laugh loudly and enjoy those around you this weekend and always!