Baca - Spiritual Module

• Question #1. What global issues and crises (e.g., global warming, mass migration) can challenge an individual’s values and ethics? What forums can an individual use to help better understand how to think, feel, and act?
We are living under unique circumstances where a set of global issues and crises are occurring simultaneously–a pandemic, political and social unrest caused by police brutality, racism and inequity to name a few. We can rise to the occasion; we can cave underneath its weight or we can remain indifferent. This creates a great challenge for our individual values and ethics. I am hopeful and inspired by the moments where we choose to rise. The endurance shown throughout this pandemic and the sincere conversations being had by many during this time of social unrest are so essential. Values of tolerance and empathy are apparent and being further developed. At the same time, I am disheartened by the intolerance and the cold resistance of those who are not willing to even listen, respect and show compassion to those who do not hold their same opinion. As an educator, it is our responsibility to be at the forefront of conversations about equity, justice, and all else that creates our society’s legacy. Most of what has helped me during these challenging times comes from recent professional learning (PDs) and exposure to forums and resources that are open to authentic dialogue and reflection.

• Question #2. What gives you a sense of meaning and purpose in your life? Share what you can about what keeps you focused on achieving.
In general, my spiritual relationship with God (my faith), my family, and my goals are what give me a sense of meaning and purpose in my life. As to what keeps me focused, scriptures have a very strong influence over my life. They inform and direct my perception and my actions in many ways. Words like blessed are the peacemakers, to whom much is given, much is expected; and so many more that deal with diligence, the importance of knowledge, and the foundation of love and hope. Living examples have another huge impact on my life and keep me focused on achieving. I think one of the true values or effectiveness of leadership is demonstrated in how you influence those around you. My mother is an incredible woman who has a gentle but fiercely strong ability to persevere. Her example has kept focused throughout the years. There are many others–writers, historical movements have made a huge difference in my life. Most recently, the criminal lawyer and justice advocate, Bryan Stevenson, has also inspired me throughout this year. His poignant speeches about the state of the criminal justice system in America have really impacted my perspectives, my thoughts and provide an exemplar model of how to expose and discuss our very painful and troublesome history while planting an invitation to engage and collaborate. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CF4Gkr0LrwA

• Question #3. What can challenge your sense of connectedness to others or purposes? How do you protect yourself from doubt?
I think that there are a couple of things that can challenge my sense of connectedness to others. I consider myself to be someone that is friendly and fair minded. However, I can also be reserved and guarded depending on the things I perceive, or I observe. For example, if I perceive that someone has a judgmental/critical character or has a lack of discretion based on the things they say or do, I may tend to keep my distance and thereby be less connected. A lack of authenticity will also keep me distant. I am also not a fan of pretentious behavior. At the same time, I know that people who do show these “types” of personalities, should be loved and given an opportunity. At the end of the day, we all have flaws. That leads me to my greatest challenge to connectedness–a lack of time. The law of economics…I simply have a limited supply of time and have to be selective, so when I am faced with this situation, I will tend to lean towards my preferences: the company of people who are supportive, hard-working, conscientious,. loving and funny.
Lastly, I would like to understand the second part of this question better. Protect myself from doubt of what? Doubting myself? Or doubting others? If it is doubt of myself, I use scriptures, conversation with loved ones, music and positive examples to work through my doubts. If it is doubt of others, I try to operate in wisdom and gentleness. Vulnerability is an important part of getting to know others and sometimes you have to overcome doubts to get there.