The Importance of Knowing

Yesterday I finished reading Nickel and Dimed by Barbara Ehrenreich.  Although it was published 2001 it still applies to today.  It is especially pertinent for us at Esperanza because we are targeting the low SES population. 

One of the things that makes Ehrenreich's book so powerful is because she chose to live for a period of time like the people she was researching.  In the Introduction she says, "...low-wage workers are no more homogeneous in personality or ability than people who write for a living, and no less likely to be funny or bright.  Anyone in the educated classes who thinks otherwise ought to broaden their circle of friends."  She goes on to say that those not having to live in this manner don't understand or know this population and for that reason they make inappropriate decisions and policies that are harmful. 

I have found in my reading of The Fiery Trial:  Abraham Lincoln and American Slavery that it took Lincoln actually meeting and interacting with Blacks who had experienced slavery did he make wiser decisions concerning the issue.

These two examples are a reminder that we need to find ways to know our Esperanza scholars and their families if we are going to make the most appropriate decisions and policies. 

Always Be Growing

I have started to read the book The Fiery Trial: Abraham Lincoln and American Slavery by Eric Foner.  In the preface the author reminds us that the hallmark of Lincoln's greatness was his capacity for growth.  He was a man who never seems to stop growing.  He grew into greatness. 

The author goes onto say that not every individual possesses the capacity for growth.  In fact, there are some who seem to shrink, rather than grow, when faced with a crisis.  The reason Lincoln was able to grow was not only because he was true to an inner compass but also because he was willing to listen to critism and seek out new ideas. 

It is my hope that the Esperanza educators will follow Lincoln's example and do what is necessary to develop our capacity to grow.  We can, therefore, be examples for our Esperanza scholars in this--one of the most important lessons we can teach them.