I came across a posting on Facebook that made a great deal of sense to me in relation to both the school situation and the other COVID-19 issues we are dealing with. Rather than “being all in the same boat,” we are all in our own boats in the same storm. It reminded me that each of us has to navigate our own course in coping with issues that did not exist just a few months ago. Canceling all school activities and converting to distance learning are part of the storm we are in, but we can survive this foul weather as individuals and together. Gopher football coach P. J. Fleck brought “Row the Boat” to Minnesota. I Googled the phrase and found an inspiring story. The phrase began in 2011 when Fleck lost his infant son to a heart condition. It translates to “Energy, sacrifice and direction buoyed by a ‘never give up’ attitude.” Maybe a second motivational phrase could be “Keep Paddling,” even if the little canoes that each of us are the captains of feel really tippy right now.
I follow “Maple Lake Schools ISD 881” on Facebook, and I came across a flyer there that informed me that we are in the middle of “Maple Lake Virtual Sprit Week 2020.” The header reads, “Distance learning is happening, but we want to stay connected as a school community! MLHS Student Council is sponsoring this week. Take a picture of yourself and post it to social media with the #MLSTILLGOTSPIRIT. Let’s show our connection! Let’s show our Irish Pride.” Each day of the week has a different theme. Monday was “Sock it to COVID-19,” and students were encouraged to wear crazy socks for their pictures. Tuesday featured “Hats Off to Healthcare Workers/Community Workers,” and posing with favorite headgear was encouraged. Wednesday is a little more laid back with “Lounge Around!” being the theme for modeling PJs and slippers. Thursday will have a more academic flavor with “Don’t Distance yourself from a good BOOK.” The instructions are to “Take a picture of you reading your favorite book! Be it a classic children’s or young adult! Just Read!” Friday is “Maple Lake Irish Spirit Day,” and students asked to “Wear your Spring Sports Jersey/Tee or Irish gear!”
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