Are you a marigold or a walnut tree?

Over the summer I saw this article online.  It is from 2013 but is so relevant each year at school, no matter how long you have been teaching, and in your personal life.

The article talks about finding your "marigold".  Marigolds are often planted near vegetable or other plants.  They are planted nearby because they protect many plants from harmful weeds and bugs.  Marigolds also help the other plants flourish and grow better than average.  In our school, a "marigold" is a peer who helps us grow throughout the year.  They may support us emotionally one day and with curriculum the next.  A "marigold" is the first person to pick you up on a bad day and help you get through it.  They are also the first person to celebrate a successful lesson/day/year with you.  You may have multiple "marigolds" depending on the day and situation. Seek out your "marigold"!  Our school is full of "marigolds".  Who are yours?

On the opposite end are walnut trees. Walnut trees are toxic.  They inhibit growth of plants nearby and eventually kill everything around them.  Many gardners try to avoid planting anything near walnut trees. All of us have our days/moments when we are "walnut trees".  But try not to live as a "walnut tree".  Some teachers are more "walnut tree" than "marigold".  Some teachers are more "marigold" than "walnut tree".

Surround yourself with many "marigolds" and grow.  We are all in this together and the more we are each others "marigolds", the more our students will benefit, which in the end, is the ultimate goal.