Lessons Learned

APR 21, 2020 – As classes come to some semblance of order in homes across America again today, let’s send good energy to all persevering parents and talented teachers, too. They all could use our support and admiration (and a few of the cards shown below might help some, too). How parents are handling their kids’ online classes plus homework plus working full-time — either remotely or in place providing essential services — is nothing short of amazing. And all the teachers now learning to teach in an altogether different way, while somehow keeping their own life in order, well, that’s just plain daunting.

Back when stay-at-home was first ordered, we received the following wise and clever email from Cardie Paige Baker, who attached the heartwarming photo, too. With Paige’s pride and permission, we’re going to share her message with you in its entirety here below:

Our world has changed so much and so quickly … in ways we all have a hard time understanding. As a former elementary school teacher and grandmother of five, I believe it is arguably my mission in life to give my adult children advice. From my lofty perch, I feel it’s my motherly obligation to share experience and wisdom that is certainly valuable if not valued. :) So the night before classes began in the home of my daughter, who has a preschooler, a kindergartner, and a third in 3rd grade, I felt there was much for me to pass along.

The unsolicited advice I emailed my daughter was this: “When I taught, I found the most important elements were structure and routine. They are paramount to success. ‘You know what to expect of me and I know what to expect of you!’

“No matter how challenging it may be, get them up, get them dressed (no pajamas at school), have them make their beds and, at 8:30 sharp, they’re to be standing in front of the flag and the home school desk formerly known as the dining room table. With hands placed over their hearts, have everyone say the Pledge of Allegiance. With that mindset and expectation, you will be one step closer to success. They will know you mean business. Good luck and good thoughts for tomorrow!”

Bright and early the next morning came the call, “Mom, we have no flag!” I grabbed mine and, thanks to the great goodness of living near family, minutes later pulled up in front of their house. In social distance mode even with those we’re closest to, I handed the flag out the window, calling to my daughter, “Send me a picture of how the day goes!”

When I saw this precious photo of Bennett, Lily and Brody, it was clear to me that — despite all evidence to the contrary — All is Well in America. Friends who saw the pic said, “It’s like a modern-day Norman Rockwell!” I did not see that at first; I saw only the magic. I saw a tribute to those who are trying their best and doing it well … fathers, mothers and others in place, teaching values anew.

All of us will remember this time. I choose to remember it this way. God Bless America.

~ Paige M. Baker, Esq.