One of my go-to activities when I need a burst of inspiration is to pick up my dog-eared, tattered copy of “Teaching with Fire: Poetry That Sustains The Courage to Teach.” I’ve had this book since early in my teaching career, and its poems remind me of my purpose, my connection to other educators, and the revolutionary work we do.

“It Is I Who Must Begin” feels particularly important at this moment. I appreciate Havel’s reminder that grand speeches and ostentatious gestures are not the point. Instead, it is the everyday work of looking inside ourselves and stepping up that matters – being true to our powerful selves and recognizing that we are not alone in the work.