At the start of each year, one text I ask Ss to read is “Willing to be Disturbed” by M. Wheatley.

What I appreciate about this essay is that it asks Ss to reflect critically on how they respond when something “disturbs” them. #DisruptTexts

Key excerpt:

https://ncs.uchicago.edu/sites/ncs.uchicago.edu/files/uploads/tools/NCs_PS_Toolkit_DPL_Set_B_WillingDisturbed.pdf

I’m reminded of this essay because in the immediate and aftermath of the Capitol riots, I’ve seen so many responses from teachers, friends, family, and the media about how disturbing it all was (or that this wasn’t “America”).

Being “disturbed” can be a moment of self-reflection.

As you think abt your response to last week and previous & ongoing injustices, consider how your reactions are feedback for yourself.

“If what you say surprises me, I must have been assuming something else was true.”

“If what you say disturbs me, I must believe something contrary to you. My shock at your position exposes my own position.”

What positions are revealed? Where did they come from? How were they formed? What experiences account for my development or holding of this position?

“When I hear myself saying, ‘How could anyone believe something like that?’ a light comes on for me to see my own beliefs. These moments are great gifts. If I can see my beliefs and assumptions, I can decide whether I still value them.”