Choking back the tears ...

Yesterday, December 18, was the last student day.  At 9:00 we had a school get-together to sing around the Christmas tree in our cafeteria.  All students and staff attended and sat on the floor.  A few teachers with EXCEPTIONALLY good voices led us all in carols.  

As you may remember, this is my first year at my new school.  My toughest child,  a young lady, sat next to me on the floor and laid her head on my lap.  Now according to my principal and several other staff members, I am making such a difference for her.  I really don't feel that way. Yes, she has made some behavioral progress.  Yes, she's not flipping out on other students as much as she used to.  However, I know she can do so much better.  This little girl had her arm draped around my shoulder for most of the time.  She played with my jewelry, sat up and put her head on my shoulder and then laid her head back down on my lap.  I found myself choking back the tears throughout our sing-along.  It finally dawned on me that YES!  Maybe I WAS reaching her.  You all know Bill and I aren't able to have children but I think this is one I am a true mother to.