Credits

 The credits for those last 2 holiday songs goes to Chat GPT 3.5.

 (Verse 1)

In a world of many colors, where traditions intertwine, Some kids don't have a special day, that's totally fine. No matter what you celebrate, or if you don't at all, Let's sing a song together, have a blast, stand tall!

(Chorus) We're the kids of many stories, no single path to find, Our holiday is unity, in joy, we all combine. No matter where you're from, or what you choose to do, We're celebrating friendship, every color, every hue.

(Verse 2) No stockings to be hung, no menorahs to light, Our celebration's in our hearts, shining oh so bright. No matter what December brings, or any time at all, We're building bridges, making friends, having a ball!

(Chorus) We're the kids of many stories, no single path to find, Our holiday is unity, in joy, we all combine. No matter where you're from, or what you choose to do, We're celebrating friendship, every color, every hue.

(Bridge) No Santa or reindeer, no candles in a row, Our holiday is special, in the love we show. No matter the traditions, or the tales we've heard, Our holiday is friendship, the sweetest kind of word.

(Verse 3) So here's a song for all of us, in this big world we roam, Kids of different backgrounds, creating our own home. No matter what you're celebrating, or if it's something new, Our holiday is love and joy, for me and for you!

(Chorus) We're the kids of many stories, no single path to find, Our holiday is unity, in joy, we all combine. No matter where you're from, or what you choose to do, We're celebrating friendship, every color, every hue.

Happy Holidays Song

 (Verse 1)

From the East to the West, in every corner of the earth, Different traditions, diverse cultures giving birth. In December's embrace, a tapestry so grand, Let's join in celebration, hand in hand.

(Chorus) Hear the songs from every land, In this global holiday band. From lights that twinkle in the snow, To the warmth where traditions grow.

(Verse 2) In snowy fields and deserts dry, Underneath the starry sky. Hanukkah candles gently glow, Diwali lamps in a radiant show.

(Pre-Chorus) Oh, the world is a melody, With traditions, rich and free. Let's dance to the rhythm, join the cheer, Every tradition, every time of year.

(Chorus) Hear the songs from every land, In this global holiday band. From lights that twinkle in the snow, To the warmth where traditions grow.

(Bridge) Christmas trees with ornaments, tinsel, and cheer, Kwanzaa's seven candles, each one drawing near. In Japan, it's osechi, a feast so divine, Around the world, different stars brightly shine.

(Verse 3) In Mexico, posadas with a joyful song, In Australia, barbecues, where friends belong. From feasts in Italy to bells in Spain, A global celebration, in unity, we gain.

(Pre-Chorus) Oh, the world is a melody, With traditions, rich and free. Let's dance to the rhythm, join the cheer, Every tradition, every time of year.

(Chorus) Hear the songs from every land, In this global holiday band. From lights that twinkle in the snow, To the warmth where traditions grow.

(Outro) So here's a song for every heart, In every tradition, play your part. Around the world, let joy unfurl, A global celebration, for every boy and girl.

Equanimity in Space

 What can be followed by the blog called Strangely Lovely but talk about a choir performance? It's refreshing to think about escaping reality sometimes. To hear people talking and not understand a word of what is being said can sound liberating. In the quest for that type of space, we allow ourselves to fall in love with education, once again. The adaptation is within the walls of education, rather than within a different country. To learn something new can often feel akin to being surrounded by a new language. To love what you learn is like finding equanimity in space.

A choir singing songs in foreign languages, embracing all of the sounds unique to its place. It's just what we needed. The sound of perfect unison among so many evokes the understanding that it is possible for people to perform together magnificently beyond our familiar potentialities. The costumes, the different sounds each one contributes, the harmony... it's all so enlivening. The practice probably wasn't. Favored be the moments that cause an educator to desire a full time student status. 

Strangely Lovely

 I wonder what you're thinking when you stare out the window like that. Are you looking at the colors of the fall leaves on the trees? Are you looking at the sun shining through the branches? 

Surely you didn't see the ladies holding hands as they were walking. That was strangely lovely.

You're so young in your years, but you have a soul that's ancient and beautiful. You cried when I shared my perspective. How do you understand? 

I love your eyes. Deep and chocolate like mud I wish I could just dig into with my bare feet. So comforting, like they've known me forever in time. 

God bless you forever and ever, Amen. 

In Authenticity

 In authenticity. 

It's been a while since I picked up a work of art that has inspired my authentic writer's voice to re-emerge. Where was it? I wonder as I hear it talking in my mind once again after a long silence. Not only my writer's voice has re-emerged, but also, my desire to paint my inspiration. 

Of all places, the inspiration comes from a book for 8-12 year olds. Not only the book, but the sequence of events surrounding the book has lit that flame inside of me that I forgot existed in the busy life we are living. Being in the presence of phenomenal teachers, innovative students, surrounded by the support of family, friends and advisors. Immersed in a constant reminder of how incredibly fortunate we are, I find myself, once again.

My writers voice doesn't really have a place in the world anymore, I started to examine, because of all of the innovative new discoveries and excellent sources of information available to us now. Until I heard the authentic voices of those around me. Oh, I get it now. Maybe I'll jot down a few thoughts. 

Maybe I'll paint my desire to run. To hear nothing but my footsteps on the dirt path. 

Am I really meant to be a teacher? I examine my life path. 

The teacher explains the forces of a roller coaster and I think about the ride I created and how unfinished it remains. A part of me cries to myself because I'm inspired to continue. Where is that voice inside of me? Maybe it died. 

And what about the one that created a new educational path? In hiding? Probably. 

It's not really authentic enough, she said. Well, last time I made it authentic, I didn't pass. I replied. And that was that. Inauthenticity and in authenticity. I suppose that's where we find our balance. 

Game Preparation by Chat Gpt

 Preparing for a big soccer game involves a combination of physical, mental, and strategic preparation. Here are some key steps:

1. **Physical Conditioning**: Ensure you are in good physical shape by following a regular training regimen that includes cardiovascular workouts, strength training, and agility drills. Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated.

2. **Rest and Recovery**: Get adequate sleep leading up to the game to allow your body to recover and perform at its best. Avoid overtraining and give your muscles time to rest.

3. **Tactical Preparation**: Study the opponent's playing style, strengths, and weaknesses. Work with your team to develop a game plan that takes advantage of opportunities and addresses potential challenges.

4. **Skill Refinement**: Focus on improving your individual soccer skills, such as dribbling, passing, shooting, and defending. Practice under game-like conditions to simulate match situations.

5. **Mental Focus**: Develop mental resilience by practicing relaxation techniques, visualization, and positive self-talk. Stay confident and maintain a positive mindset.

6. **Team Chemistry**: Foster strong communication and understanding among your teammates. Practice coordinated plays, set pieces, and strategies that exploit your team's strengths.

7. **Pre-Game Routine**: Establish a pre-game routine that includes warm-up exercises, stretching, and mental preparation. Arrive at the venue early to acclimate to the environment.

8. **Hydration and Nutrition**: Properly hydrate and eat a balanced meal before the game. Choose foods that provide sustained energy and avoid heavy or unfamiliar meals.

9. **Equipment Check**: Ensure your soccer gear, including cleats, jersey, shin guards, and any other equipment, is in good condition and comfortable to wear.

10. **Coach's Instructions**: Listen to your coach's instructions and advice. Understand the game plan and your role within it.

11. **Stay Positive**: Stay focused on the present moment and avoid distractions. Visualize successful plays and outcomes to boost your confidence.

12. **Warm-Up**: Engage in a thorough warm-up routine to increase blood flow, improve flexibility, and reduce the risk of injury.

13. **Stay Calm Under Pressure**: Embrace the adrenaline rush and pressure of a big game. Maintain composure, manage nerves, and rely on your training.

14. **Support System**: Lean on your teammates, coaches, and support staff for encouragement and motivation. Positive team dynamics can boost morale and performance.

15. **Post-Game Reflection**: After the game, analyze your performance and learn from both successes and areas that need improvement. Use this feedback to refine your skills and strategies.

Remember that preparation is key, but also enjoy the experience of playing soccer and competing at a high level. Embrace the challenge and have confidence in your abilities.