We have become so comfortable in wanting to fit the status quo that we’ve forgotten how powerful uniqueness can be. In my biased opinion as an aspiring writer, a person’s most distinctive trait is their creativity. When we hone this creativity, we cultivate opportunities that may not have already been available. That’s what happened to me. My parents honed my creativity, encouraging me to write stories on their work-notebooks, offering to be my editor, and even taking on the roll of being my first publishers. Their work in raising me continues to be my inspiration for becoming a better citizen.
Over the summer, I extended my book-writing workshop, working with over 50 fifth grade writers. Needless to say, they were amazing. I watched them transform some of the most mundane experiences into detailed stories, completely blown away by their skill. They drafted, they discussed, they wrote, and they collaborated so incredibly well. What I loved most was the sheer amount of encouragement they had for each other. None of them were competing: they were collaborating, enjoying and rejoicing in the beauty of creativity and collaboration.
A few weeks ago, I received images of their published books. I hope that one day, these amazing fifth graders understand how meaningfully they’ve cultivated opportunities for their creativity to shine through.
