Be Nice!

by Maria Corse
 
How passé - completely yawn inspiring - boring.  Some would go even further to say that there is no real drama or thrill in nice.
 
I would argue, in most cases, that just may be the point.  I understand, there are those few who thrive on theatrics, crisis after crisis, and turmoil, however, for most of us, it gets really old, really fast.  And, for many us who are ultra-sensitive, it is absolutely unbearable.  We are highly attuned to the energies and feelings swirling around a room when we walk in.  An environment filled with toxic vibes of anger, sadness, fear, anxiety, or frustration often hits us like a ton of bricks.  
 
On the other hand, we are equally aware of positive energy. Personally, when I am surrounded by people who are pleasant, kind, authentic, and open to new ideas and experiences, my heart beat slows down (I stop pacing) and I am visibly engaged in the activities or conversation around me.
 
People who are sensitive are often conscious of their impact on others and are very mindful of intentionally offering their whole selves by listening and observing carefully without judgement, and, by expressing their feelings and ideas with the objective of discovering shared passions and interests.  I value the opportunity to make deep personal connections and to build meaningful relationships with the people I meet, all the while learning from their experiences.  Because, really, when it is all said and done, isn’t that why we are all here?
 
No matter what you subscribe to --- The Golden Rule, the Law of Reciprocity, or the principles of Karma, they all promote this one thing. In my view, nice rests companionably alongside, honesty, authenticity, humor, compassion, empathy, and kindness; however, it also resides cozily within excitement, enthusiasm, discovery, creativity, passion, and spirited-ness. In other words, there is absolutely no need to be an obnoxious jerk to avoid boredom, because with respectful behavior you can open yourself to compelling new friendships and ideas, and, in the process, you may even uncover a small dose (hit) of drama, in bite-size, manageable portions.

DRC News
 
Summertime
We spent the last week of our academic year: playing in the woods, talking about classes for next year, making fidget spinners, dismantling the aquaponics system, working on our (award winning) Dairy Princess float, making homemade pizza, and engaging in the usual lively social scene.
 
Thank you again to all of our kids, their families, staff, and volunteers for another fantastic year.  I am continually inspired by your enthusiasm and willingness to explore this model of education.
 
Looking forward
 
We have some exciting initiatives that we will be unveiling over the next couple weeks. 
 
First – We will be creating a workout room/gym space at DRC.  It will include simple equipment such as: a punching bag and boxing gloves, hand weights, chin-up bar, yoga mats and props, a balance ball, (maybe a small b-ball hoop), and a foam tile floor mat.
 
Second –We will be revamping our weekly schedule to take advantage of community collaborations and college student volunteers. Beginning Sept. 5th, DRC will be open every Monday and Tuesday, closed on Wednesday, and open on Thursday and Friday. 
 
Third - Stay tuned for information about a brand new, innovative program at DRC this Fall.
 
Summer Hours
In general, the Center will be open M-F, 8-3 during the month of June. I will, however, be scheduling appointments through the whole month and we will be working on rearranging, organizing and building our new spaces, so contacting us ahead of time is advised.
 
I will be taking at least two weeks of vacation during the month of July.  There will be staff and/or an intern at the Center most days if you would like to stop in and check us out. 
 
17/18 Registration is Open
Contact Maria to set up an appointment to learn how your child can share their voice and ideas while becoming part of this dynamic and inspiring community of learners.

---