Back to School – a bit different this year

Today was the first day of school for my kids. This first day was not like the others. First of all, we are in the midst of a pandemic. Second, we have just relocated to a different community, so my kids are going to a new school (the third school in two years, Luc likes to tell everyone).

Even though there is much more uncertainty in how their day will unfold, they greeted today with enthusiasm and excitement. Today was not met with tears, worries, or wishes to be back with old classmates (like the previous two moves). Instead, there was a buzz of excitement and Sophie singing, “We get to go to a new school!” Lots of chatter about how their day will look. “I can’t wait to see how things are set up”, “I wonder who our teacher will be”, “How many kids will be in school today?”

They offered to help me make their lunches, got dressed in their new outfits they had laid out the night before, and picked their mask they would wear all day. Then before we headed out the door, I sat them down to do a guided meditation – one I have been doing each day and am loving.

(You can find it here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGO8IWiusJo&t=564s).

Kyle and I have been trying to instill a sense of gratitude in our kids over the past few years. Today I noticed the rewards of our labours. Yes, we have had plenty of conversations about the uncertainty, and how it is normal to feel nervous about going back. Our kids are human just like us, and they have displayed an array of emotions during this pandemic. But the overall positive outlook they chose today when faced with this crazy uncertainty made me over the moon happy and grateful.

Focusing on the things we have to be thankful for everyday becomes a habit. A habit that takes very little effort, raises our happiness set point, and makes it easier to find silver linings all around us. What could be better than that?