Bouncy Cushions

by Maria Corse
 
In our world of privilege: strength, stamina, ultra-independence, and, let’s be brutally honest, the intent to win, no matter the collateral - are the ultimate goals.  If you do not subscribe to or possess these qualities, you are often perceived as weird, stupid, ignorant, lazy, or simply broken.  There is simply no room within this ideology to offer support, kindness, or anything that even closely resembles assistance.  The old adage “pull yourself up by the bootstraps” comes to mind as the perfect example of the rhetoric expressed by people who endorse this time-honored doctrine. 
 
What this whole overarching cultural philosophy forgets or fails to understand is that we are all human.  And, as humans we learn, gain significant knowledge, achieve our goals, and positively flourish when we are offered encouragement, affirmation, support, and constructive feedback.  This absolutely does not constitute coddling or spoiling.  I am not suggesting that rigor is a four-letter word or that people should not work hard, struggle, or even be disappointed. 
 
What I am alluding to is that we are better together.  You have fantastic skills and interests that most likely compliment my talents and passions, and, by working together, we can create something completely awesome.
 
This is the main philosophy behind the Liberated Learners organization, that DRC belongs to, and each of the fourteen self-directed learning centers that comprise the consortium.  Sharing, cooperation, collaboration, advocacy, encouragement, nurturing, and, above all, compassion and generosity are at the very heart of what we offer each other as staff members within the network, as well as, every single child who walks into each of our facilities.
 
These characteristics, I believe, are key to changing the basic tenets of our culture.  I like to imagine that cushion of support as a big trampoline that simply interrupts the free fall (jump) and allows us to bounce back into the game with new ideas and strategies. Not only will we survive the disheartening potentially catastrophic times – we ultimately thrive.
 
Thank you to every single Liberated Learner for providing that safe, soft - yet springy place for me to continuously rebound into this amazing journey of creating Deep Root Center with new/revised strategies and schemes.  I value your friendship, kindness, and your advice. 
 

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DRC NEWS
 
Summer Programs
 
Did you see?  August 14 -18 is Theater Week with inspiring Karen Wells.  Register today for this fun and imaginative week of “drama”.  If you have a child who enjoys making up characters and stories, they will absolutely adore this experience.
 
Water, Woods, & Wild Wonders
 
As you have probably heard, our kids will have the opportunity to become completely immersed in the wild wonders of the natural world.  We are looking forward to initiating this program in September.  Look for the first newsletter by mid- August.
 
Work-out Room
 
It is coming together with an assortment of donated equipment for kids to use on a daily basis.

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