By Rachelle Bristol
It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
I LOVE the holidays. They are full of tradition, kindness, and good cheer. Some of my best family memories revolve around an evergreen tree with lights and shiny ornaments. We had a family tradition that we would cut down our own tree and let it “air out” as my father used to say in the garage overnight. I was always anxious for the next day to come so we could adorn the tree with years of bad craft projects, colored lights, silver garland, and icicles (those silver strands that you throw on the tree after it is completely decorated). My mother was an avid Christmas junkie and decorated as if her life depended on it. It is also this time of year that her memory and that of my father are never far from my thoughts.
While I miss my parents, I have been very fortunate in my journeys to meet amazing humans who have become like family to me and have reminded me to be grateful for the gifts that are in my life, both year-round and during this time of year. Despite Covid and the impact on all our lives, there are many things to be grateful for this year. While the list is long, I will share a few.
- My life in Maine
While change is often feared, I see it as opportunity – to grow, to start over, to challenge oneself, to see the world differently, to learn, or to evolve. December 2022 marks the second anniversary of my move to Maine. While I know I will never be a true Mainer for many reasons or so I am told, I am grateful for the opportunities that my new life in Maine has given me. I have been fortunate to meet lots of interesting people and see places with breathtaking beauty. My life here has challenged me to think differently about how I see the world and my place in it. I will forever be grateful for the circumstances that led me here. Thank you to the many folks who have made my life better and welcomed me here despite me being from away.
2. Public education and ALL educators
My parents were staunch supporters of public education, and my mother was the equivalent of an Ed Tech. I was brought up to appreciate the value of a good education and to work hard to take full advantage of the lessons presented to me. I was instilled with a healthy respect for ALL educators which continues to this day and drives my daily work. I am honored to do the work that protects access for all to a quality public education. I have made advocacy for public education and the hardworking educators who tirelessly guide our students my life’s work. I am especially proud to be part of the MEA and to help lead the work to protect, support and advocate for our members and public education. MEA members do amazing things each and every day, and I send my appreciation to all of you.
3. Election results
While this one may seem out of place in relation to the previous two, I am grateful that November 8, 2022, did not go badly for our endorsed candidates. MEA endorsed candidates won their elections in large numbers which is good news for students, public education, and educators. MEA will continue the work we have been doing on behalf of members with some friendly faces and allies. We will pursue making the working and learning environment better for all through positive legislative and policy changes and to make the education profession a place where everyone can see themselves. Not all states faired as well and will face many attacks on professional autonomy, inclusion and equity, and funding. Elections matter and impact the lives of educators daily. What educators earn, what content they can teach, what their pension will be, and many more things are decided by the individuals we send to Augusta and the state legislature.
As we turn the page on another year, I look forward to the future and a new year full of things to be grateful for and adventures to be had. I am grateful for the collaboration and partnerships I have enjoyed this year and look forward to partnering with all of you to keep the promise of a public education for future generations.
I hope you enjoy the people and experiences that you are grateful for this holiday season, and I wish all of you a restful and joyful break.
All the best,
Rachelle
