Slice of Life Story Challenge #23 - I Am Yoga, I Am Peace, I Am Human

 My focus this month is to explore writing invitations, mostly through newly published picture books, but possibly some other mentor texts as well.

 

I Am Human: A Book of Empathy by Susan Verde

bookshelves: 2018-book, empathy, emotions, choices, confidence, grit, growth-mindset, hope, identity, individuality, picture-book, journey, curiosity, creativity

I love Susan Verde's and Peter H. Reynolds's "I am..." books! This one is perfect for an empathy unit. In this one, the author/illustrator team celebrates being human - embracing the wonderfulness of being human, but also recognizing the hard parts. The ending empowers children to choose happiness and kindness, to move forward, and understand that they are not alone. "We are all humans together." It would be a great book to begin AND end a school year.

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My first class with Columbia Intermediate School Colleagues, August 2016

I Am Cyclebar

When I feel stressed and tired,

when I wonder if things will calm down,

when things feel out of control...

I tell my weary body:

get on the bike.

I tell my spinning mind:

focus.

I tell my shallow breath:

fill your lungs with oxygen.

I am Cyclebar.

Frank says,

"Breathe positivity in,

breathe negativity out."

Amanda says,

"Look in the mirror.

You are a strong warrior.

You can do anything."

Kayleigh says,
"Set your intentions.
Settle in.  You are here."



Serena says,
"There are 1440 minutes in a day
and you're with me for 48 of those.
I won't waste your time."



I can conquer my doubts.

I am capable.

I can sprint

and steady my breath.

I can sweat

and turn the gears up.

I can climb to the top three.

I can increase my power points,

and focus my mind.

I can stand up and push,

drop down to do push ups,

and pick up that bar.

I can dance to the pounding beat,

tricep dip,

and isolate.

I can reach my goals,

surge, sprint, and pedal faster.

I can high five afterward,

give sweaty hugs,

and celebrate

doubts conquered, a healthy body and mind,

causes championed,

positive power,

goals met,

and each other.

I am Cyclebar.