Speak Your Truth

In gym (lifetime activities) we're watching a movie about golf ("The Greatest Game Ever Played"). This morning, before we went to the MVP assembly, Ms. P asked if we had any questions about the movie. She talked a little about what had gone on, making sure we remembered and understood.

"People often were discriminated against based on class back then," she finished.

A student (we'll call her Maddie) raised her hand. "That still sometimes happens today," she said when Ms. P called on her.

"Classism? It's not nearly so much of a problem currently," Ms. P said.

"Well, yeah, it's not as much, but it still happens."

"Yes, I suppose in some places," contemplated Ms P, "certain people aren't allowed into country clubs..."

"I meant more in general," said Maddie as a few people suppresed snickers.

"What did you say?" asked Ms. P, as Maddie had talked sort of quietly.

"Nothing," said Maddie.

Ms. P looked at her intently and said, simply and clearly, "Speak your truth," citing one of the five rules of our class "full value contract."

Of course Maddie had to consent, so she said again, "I meant in general. Like maybe a person can't go to college because he doesn't have enough money."

"That seems like more of a financial trouble...or you mean based on his socio-economic status..." they completed the conversation. As we were walking out the door to go to the assembly, Ms. P said to Maddie, "I'm glad you said what you had to say."

Wow, she made a much bigger deal out of that than necessary...

-Rebecca