May 23, 2016

Concerning the Art Teachers Facebook Conversation

Hey friends!  I was made aware of the Art Teachers Facebook Group conversation that my devotional posts seemed to have sparked.  I am not going to apologize for them.  I know I've lost some readers because of them.  However, I saw a need when I started them over a year ago....and still see that need.  They are not for everyone.  However, there are art teachers out there that read them, share them, and use them in their classrooms (I've had many Christian/Catholic school art teachers ask if they could use them to open lessons).  I see many things on the Art Teachers page that I'd never use or might call into question the relevance, but never would I say that teachers should not post what they do.  We are a diverse group, and posts will strike a cord with some people & not others.  That's ok!  I'm thankful that people can connect on that group & help each other through lessons, situations, or just a bad day.  I love that the group comes in all shapes, sizes, colors, and faiths!  We all bring a flavor to the amazing Art Teachers melting pot!!  

I blog & post because I love to connect with other art teachers...and hope by sharing my journey I can help & encourage others.  

 I actually loved that the conversation was happening....just because someone doesn't agree with us doesn't mean their view point is not valid!

If you comment on that thread...please remember to be kind...loving...and understanding.  We all come with different experiences, challenges, thoughts, and beliefs.....and can learn so much if we just take time to listen to people where they are in the journey!! 

12 comments:

  1. I am SO thankful for other Christian art teachers that bold in their faith and not ashamed to share their hope in Christ! Thank you for your devotionals-I read them each posting and am strengthen in my faith through what God has lead you to write! Persecution means you're doing something right or the enemy would not be attacking!

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  2. Thank you, Ted, for your boldness to express your faith! I am also a believer and find your posts uplifting and inspiring to read. Keep it up!
    Kathy

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  3. Well, *they* say that if you are getting negative comments on your blog that you've made it! It's true, whenever you put any sort of idea out there you are open to criticism, but you need to follow your heart and do your good work. If people find that they don't agree or that your blog is no longer filling a need for them, they can move on. But that is my two cents! Take care, Mrs. P

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  4. Well..I've had my fair share of negative comments over the years!! ha ha Thank you for the encouragement!!

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  5. You do you, Mr. E. Art is about expressing YOUR personal experiences, thoughts, dreams. No one else gets a say 😀. Sometimes that group makes me wonder if I get more positive out of it than negative.

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    1. I've actually had several teachers say that same thing...the bigger it has gotten..it seems there is much more negativity! The conversation has gotten out of hand...I thought it was ok for awhile, but what I've seen today it has gotten kind of ugly. Thank you so much for the ray of sunshine...I truly appreciate it!!!!!!!!!

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  6. While I hate that this happened to you, it does give me a little relief knowing you have a lot of these same feelings. I feel like the last few things I have posted or said has led to a lot of negativity and judgment over doing things differently in our art rooms. We are all so different and we all teach different students and in the end, WE know what is best for our kids in our classrooms.

    I love your devotionals. Good for you for not apologizing for them- you never should. Keep on being an amazing art teacher!!! I get so many ideas from you and I do not even teach elementary :)

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  7. I, too, am thankful for your boldness that is balanced by your sweet spirit! You are a blessing and an encourager. We need more beauty in the world...and you shine bright!

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  8. Mudslingers sometimes can't think of anything better to do than sling mud. Thank you for what you do.

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  9. I just want to encourage you to continue to share your journey of faith. A few months ago you shared about CHANGE and it really spoke to my circumstances. I read it just after my headmaster asked me to take on middle and high school, as well as, elementary art. Well, I am spending my summer preparing many new lessons! I teach at a small Christian school and I hope you don't mind if I use some of your devotions as inspiration for my biblical integration.

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  10. I agree with Gloria ^ I'm an art teacher returning to a profession I love, and it's challenges and rewards. I need Jesus every day to help me and your devotionals are a gift from heaven!!

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