Last year I had written a poem, the first blog post of the year that was called “Pouring Water on Sand?”
The imagery of pouring water into a space where it drains off and we never see an outcome germinate was very well received because it resonated with many colleagues and in wider circles where readers reside.
4th Week of September
Monday, September 28, 2026, was exactly that kind of day where I felt I had been pouring water on sand.
I was wondering if what I do matters at all. Does it really count for anything? Having a daily spring in my step when I plan lessons and activities with intentionality, the learning from AQs and professional workshops.
Does it matter? I thought it might be too early in the year to go there, but the heart and mind respond to grey skies and poli-tricks in such ways!
Heading home, I stopped for some appointments and checked my email at 7 p.m. and saw this, a letter that was waiting:
Hello Ms. Karnad-Jani,
I don’t know if you remember me from when you used to teach at [The School with the Gorgeous Sunrise].
Hope you have been well!
I never got to see you afterwards, but I have never forgotten about you.
I have completed a concurrent education to teach Secondary students. Thank you for always having faith in me, and encouraging me to keep pushing forward.
I have been teaching my students about the Q-chart and chunking texts, the things that you have taught me! How have you been? What’s new with you?
Hope to hear from you soon!
Best regards,
Your Student
*********
The Answers Come When We Need Them
Does what I do, matter? I had asked myself at 5 p.m.
It sure came quickly, the answer to my wonderings. In fact the email/letter was waiting patiently for me to finish my day and connect with My Purpose in the Work.
I am sharing this letter with you, my fellow travellers. I invite you to take of yourselves as we head into October and November.
You and I are here for one another and for our students. And our students and their families are here with us, because they know that we walk together for public education.
The letters will come. Trust me!
What you and I do matters…
P.S. The writer is one of my students from a Grade 7-8 class. And here I am sitting with a cup of tea, thinking of the way life works.
With You, In Solidarity,
Rashmee Karnad-Jani
