May I Ask You a Question? (Actually, Three)
What is something you have learned recently? What is something you have done to help someone? What is something that made you smile or laugh? I usually ask my students these three questions at the beginning of each week. I often listen to the Smart Thinking podcast, and the host, Ted Neitzke, made a habit of using these questions as dinner table discussion starters when his kids were growing up. I decided to borrow them for my classroom. I hope that they help students think about living their lives intentionally. Let’s break this down.
What is something you have learned recently?
Sometimes students think the answer to this question has to be related to school. It might have an academic connection, but it doesn’t have to. Lifelong learning is encouraged at Concordia. I often remind students that they are responsible for their own education. I have learned a lot from my students (and on my own) that has nothing to do with school. Sometimes responses to this question are along the lines of, “I learned that it is a good idea to wear a helmet when I’m riding my scooter,” or, “I learned to be careful about what I promise.” I want to constantly learn and grow, and I want to encourage my students to adopt that mindset as well.
What is something you have done to help someone?
Sometimes students think this has to be a big deal. It doesn’t. I hope that asking the question helps them to be mindful of thinking about others. Did you help pass out papers or collect books? Did you help someone clean up a spilled drink in the hall? Did you open the door for someone carrying a large load? Those little things mean a lot and nudge us past our own selfishness to consider the needs of others. Helping others trains our hearts toward servant leadership.
What is something that made you smile or laugh?
It is important to work hard. It is important to take school seriously. It is important not to laugh at someone else’s expense. Yet, if we take ourselves too seriously, it can suck the joy right out of life. When we recognize humor, beauty, and joy in others and in our world, it lifts our spirits and helps us to bring light into the lives of everyone around us.
I don’t ask these questions to focus on works righteousness or to encourage students to brag. I ask the questions to gently prod them to be intentional about their daily choices. Those choices become habits, and those extended habits become embedded character. So, with that in mind, what is something you have learned, done to help someone, or made you smile or laugh lately?