Love Languages

I finally figured out my love language. It's not supposed to be a long drawn-out process, but for me it was. I don't know why. But this week it finally hit me. My love language is "words of affirmation." I should've known this. I mean--I *am* a ham and love to be on stage and performing and hearing the applause. But for some reason, I kept thinking there had to be more to it than that. Nope. Words of affirmation. That's me!

Here's how it finally came crashing down into my brain. Last Thursday was our 3rd grade program. The kids were doing an instrumental program this time around. This was done partly because we have to do the program so stinkin' early in the year and partly to show off our fabulous Orff Carts that the PTA purchased for the music program. "Some people" thought they were a waste of money, so I decided to show everyone what a difference they can make. Because of the carts, I can actually use the barred instruments more often because it's not such a hassle getting them out for the kids.

So last Thursday night, the kids were set to perform for the PTA meeting. (That's a whole other story in itself!) We were informed about a week before that our superintendent would be attending and had a 15 minute presentation. Umm...okay. We'll go on after him.

(Words of affirmation. I know. I'm getting there.)

I didn't really expect Dr. R to stay for our program. Maybe he had another school to present to. Maybe he had a dinner date. Maybe his time is more valuable than mine. Whatever. He didn't stay. I would've been pleasantly surprised if he had, but I was not surprised that he didn't.

However...

The third graders performed that afternoon for the school. Our principal was not in attendance. She was in the building, but not at the assembly. She *was* there for the evening performance. She did not introduce us nor speak to the parents from the time I was in there. (I spent Dr. R's presentation time corralling 100 third graders in the gym with a little help from my fellow specials teachers.) After the presentation, she didn't say a word to me. She has never mentioned the program. At all. Not once.

Now...I know that I don't do programs for the applause. (Well, okay...maybe a little bit.)The kids did a FANTASTIC job. I was so very, very proud of them. And that's why I do what I do. It's not for the accolades and certainly not for the high paycheck. But...even a "good program" from the principal would go a long way toward me feeling better about what I do.

I don't expect to be the darling of the faculty. And many, many of my fellow teachers acknowledged what a great job the kids did. That's when I realized it. Words of affirmation. They make all the difference in how I feel about myself, what I do and who I am. That's what I need. Tell me I look pretty. Tell me the dinner is tasty. Tell me the house looks great or thank you for doing the laundry. Tell me I'm a good mom, wife, teacher, person. Yep...words of affirmation. I should probably pass along this revelation to Richard, huh?