I have been reading Pink's chapter on empathy. This has been on my mind a lot lately in dealing with some issues in the classroom. Since I see my kids only twice a week, it is imperative that they come prepared with their instruments and band books. I also require they come with pencils so that they can mark the music as needed. Since we have come back from holiday break, I have noticed that all of these things coming together on the same day is rather difficult. It seems that the students will have at best two out of three needed materials for class. Since I see students in many different schools, it is hard to really get into the culture of the school and establish myself as a true member of the faculty. Some of the teachers regard my class as just another specials class, with no merit other than giving them another break in the day. It seems that what Pink is saying is that empathy is an important tool in dealing with people in general. You have to be able to empathize with others so that they understand and know that what they are doing is important to you. Likewise, you want someone to be empathetic to you also. It seems in some buildings this is hard to come by. Students do not feel empathy when they come to my class over and over without their materials. Some of their attitudes seem to infer, "See if you can teach me now! I dare you!". Well, as a teacher, I do teach them anyway. I try and try and do my very best. I think Pink had it correct that empathy is just as important as anything else in all situations. If you are empathetic you provide the person on the recieving end the means to help you more because they feel as if you understand and can relate. Empathy is what is lacking lately. Now, I just have to find a good way to remotivate my students.