Kindness at Christmas

In a world that seems so divided and unpredictable, I consider myself fortunate to find kindness in my classroom. I know for many, it may seem hard to find the positive where there is so much negative in today's society. But this Christmas, I turned away from social media and put down my phone to take the time to read, that is, read Christmas cards from my students ranging in the ages of 9-13 years old.

For the past 25 plus years, I have been very fortunate to be blessed at Christmas with gifts from students. Gifts ranging from Cognac, champagne, wine, Kate Spade jewellery and wallets, to gift cards, chocolates and donations to charities made in my honour. I admit, I have been spoiled. As impressive as it is to sip some champagne, it is the Christmas cards written by my students that has made the greatest impact.

In more recent years, maybe as retirement nears closer, I have started to keep these very Christmas cards. This past Christmas as I opened gifts from my students, it wasn't so much the gifts but the kind words from many of them that really made an impact on me. It was very unexpected, as I teach the dreaded subject known as French. Who really likes French people always ask me. I have always seen myself as a tough but fair teacher. Some days are not easy and I have high expectations of all my students. Often times, I feel like maybe I am a little too tough. Then comes Christmas and I am blown away with the kindness of my students. I think this Christmas, some of the cards even made me emotional. I must be doing something right.

During this holiday season, I hope many stop to take the time to find the positive and experience kindness.

Happy Holidays and All the Best in 2026!