Freedom & Responsibility

Freedom and responsibility, to some folks, may feel like polar opposites; however, they are inextricably linked when you live in society or are a part of a community.

Yes, you have the freedom to make choices that are best for you, but within your personal decisions, you also have a responsibility to the whole. Bound by that, your personally held beliefs are yours. Your choices can be based on those convictions; however, you cannot force them or the repercussions on anyone else. It is the very definition of society.

At DRC, we trust each student member with tons of freedom. They are each in charge of their education and, with our mentoring support, get to decide what that looks like. Nevertheless, we also hold them accountable for how their decisions may affect others.

In this diverse environment, we are all reminded daily of how our personalities, needs, wants, and behaviors can bump up against others, and are fodder for conversation when they become a point of conflict, uncomfortable, or unsafe for others.

Oftentimes, all it takes is a quick reminder or a few moments in a quiet place to reset and regulate. Other times, when harmful choices are set on repeat, and dysregulation is the default mode, it involves creating firm (non-punitive) boundaries that, at first glance, may seem restrictive within this environment where freedom is innate - but in the long run, are vital pieces we have put in place to model and teach accountability, collaboration, respect, and kindness.

Freedom, responsibility, and diversity of individuals can coexist when given equal importance and nurtured with loving boundaries. And when everyone is celebrated for who they are and what they bring to the group.

DRC News

It was a wild energy week full of kitchen and art adventures at DRC Canton. Oh, and we discovered via our porch cam that we have a fairly regular "stinky" visitor. Hopefully, he restricts his visits to nighttime and early, early morning.

The DRC Pop-ups met at the Massena and Norwood Libraries this past week.

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Thanks again to the Potsdam Food Co-op for inviting us to collaborate at their Open House last weekend. We had a great time watching kids get creative. We look forward to future opportunities to team up.