Last week after an exceptional conversation about education, bias and divisive rhetoric on the Tom Schimmer podcast, I reflected on a question he asked me. He wanted to know what we could do about all the negative rhetoric on social media, as well as face to face. It was a real idk moment, and I don't have a lot of those. The question made me feel small and helpless because not being mean seems like such an easy thing to do. Why are humans so mean to each other and why do we feed on others being mean to each other? I have my thoughts, but I'll save them for another day. 

Today, I want to simply move toward a solution based on two grandma axioms: "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all" and "garbage in, garbage out". First, do no harm. If you have the chance to react to someone's rant, just say no. We don't have to engage. And second, if you read something you disagree with, disagree silently. Having an opinion does not mean you have to voice an opinion. 

Finally, spend this week putting some realistic positivity into the world. Join me in posting something kind, funny or uplifting at least once a day for all of December. Don't move into the sunshine and rainbows area, but take time to empathetically encourage others. And if you get stumped, post puppy and pet pig pics. I find them comforting. 

In case you need a spot to feed your own soul, try Reader's Digest or the Good News Network. Sometimes we just need a break from the headlines. 

Finally, in case you are wondering why this is meaningful for teachers working to be more inclusive, I'll just say this: You can't pour from an empty cup. Fill your cup and let it spill over to others, all month.