The Lingering Calm of Santa Fe

The feeling is transformative, a profound experience that lingers long after the moment has passed, generating AHA realizations that continue to dance in your mind. The imagery is vivid: better days, golden fall leaves, iconic Santa Fe architecture, and the spiritual calm I carried home from those three unforgettable days.

Walking through Santa Fe, New Mexico, I met strangers who quickly became trusted confidantes. This exposure to new people proved cathartic, creating space for open and honest conversations in a remarkably short amount of time. The experience was defined by these deep connections whether during a cleansing mountain hike, appreciating the crisp air while engaging in meaningful dialogue with a friend, or while sipping spicy margaritas and connecting with educators from across the country. Sharing stories, comparing our work, and learning one another’s personal histories created an instant and powerful bond.

The result of this journey is more than a collection of memories; it is a deeper understanding of who I am, both as an educator and as a human being. The conference provided a much-needed framework for self-reflection, allowing me to explore my worries and dilemmas without shame or judgment, and offering a clear path forward.

I am immensely grateful to Shu Shu, Antonio, and Crystal, Learning Plus Design Facilitators, for their expert guidance during this conference. Also, I want to thank all my listening partners for being integral parts of my journey. You know who you are.

Three days focused solely on self-reflection and personal growth is a rare gift. I am grateful I chose to invest in myself, recognizing that being messy, taking risks, and embracing uncertainty are essential parts of my current existence. My commitment now is to welcome spontaneity, deepen my friendships, explore new possibilities, and give my family the focused attention they deserve.