I do hope this finds you well, I'm in the recovery position today! Exhausted and a little shocked, because Monday came too soon .. I wasn't ready! So please do excuse the rough edges…
As always the BELMAS conference this weekend was fantastic! Once upon a time, I remember
being rather scared and awed by this gathering. Probably my lack of
understanding about leadership made me fear that it would be elitist and
oppressive. I'm glad to say that what I find every year is warmth, collegiality
and respect! In terms of sustainability, the weekend leaves me renewed,
refreshed, challenged and connected. If a little weary! Ken Robinson talks
about walking into a room where people talk your language, know your passion,
connect to your craft - the community at @belmas feels this
way to me!
I was Really! Really! honoured to
meet John Novak – a privilege and a joy! Being of an enthusiastic disposition
(after 20 years in education?!) I was preparing myself to welcome him with
intentionality. after all, Intentional invitation is the subject of his most
recent book, Leading
for Educational Lives. However, I felt quite out-welcomed by his warmth and
interest?! I gather I did a good job with of my introduction - despite my fear.
People were kind enough to let me know that my joke - about being neither
underwhelming or overwhelmed, but full of whelm - was appreciated. This was a
reference to his recent book. In his keynote, he joked that as a Canadian
he hoped that people read his book, but as an American he hoped people bought his
book! As I told him, my feelings are that as my book is now so old, I usually
pray that the people I meet cannot remember mine!
My paper went well, as the previous blog articulates. I enjoyed sharing the ideas
I'm playing with ideas. Those that connect sustain-ability, to
equality/inequality, governance and account-ability. A tall order, and not the
most straightforward of academic endeavours. My heart soared, as I was
described as 'inspiring' twice! More generally people were warm in
conversation, looking after me, and helping me get my needs met (hugs and
tea!!). I picked up loads of ideas in the session I chaired. Friends and new colleagues.... I was voted in
as a council member, an honour and a privilege!!
Today I’ll be lying on the sofa, trying to find low brow stuff to do
while my body recovers. Accessibility issues and general high levels of noise
have left me v week and wobbly. I look forward to more worthwhile endeavour –
tomorrow!
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