It's fortuitous that the Ethics class came along at the right time for this teacher. Frequently, we as educators don't take the time to reflect on our practice because the hectic pace of just getting through the day or the term supercedes everything else.

This is also a powerful reflection, that when teachers set up the learning environment as a win-lose situation, it usually leads to students exhibiting resistance. Power struggles, in my experience, have never built self-confidence--either for the loser or the winner. The author was wise to perceive the flaws in this approach to teaching.

I had to laugh--I have a picture of myself in the coveted beanie, as well. I THINK I am using it as a motivational tool but this passage causes me to reflect on my own motivations.

I deal with this "bitter fruit" scenario frequently as I find myself in the position of "wearing the black hat" with both students and faculty who are complaining about issues at the college. It is very challenging to NOT leave any situation in its win-lose configuration but instead to find ways to turn the inevitable "lose" position into some kind of redeeming experience.

I, too, am glad that Jesus takes me seriously despite my flaws as an educator and as a person. My awareness of his mercy toward me brings a smile to my face and a willingness to share that mercy with other humans around me--especially those I work with in the school setting.