miauuuu!!! \(≧▽≦)/\(≧▽≦)/

Based off this thing I saw where Simon gets pissy, shouts at Grace and throws something and Grace, being the sensitive guy he is, starts crying and Simon, not used to his words having any sort of power like that, instantly is like I'm the worst person ever. Grace has been nothing but kind and patient with him and here he is making him cry. He apologizes over and over again, sent into a baffling state of desperation and hysteria to try to make up for it.

Grace shows him mercy, sinking down and giving him a hug and a kiss to the forehead to talk him off the edge. He then tells Simon he still needs time to get over it and the hurtful words Simon said, but that Simon doesn't deserve to punish himself so severely, just be more controlled next time. The start of Simon learning hes the only one in control of himself, he can't make excuses here and he won't be punished severely which creates even more pressure for him to grow as person.

Based off this thing I saw where Simon gets pissy, shouts at Grace and throws something and Grace, being the sensitive guy he is, starts crying and Simon, not used to his words having any sort of power like that, instantly is like I'm the worst person ever. Grace has been nothing but kind and patient with him and here he is making him cry. He apologizes over and over again, sent into a baffling state of desperation and hysteria to try to make up for it.

Grace shows him mercy, sinking down and giving him a hug and a kiss to the forehead to talk him off the edge. He then tells Simon he still needs time to get over it and the hurtful words Simon said, but that Simon doesn't deserve to punish himself so severely, just be more controlled next time. The start of Simon learning hes the only one in control of himself, he can't make excuses here and he won't be punished severely which creates even more pressure for him to grow as person.

It is one thing to be able to teach effectively, and another to manage a variety of different individuals needs while maintaining engagement. Every skill that Grace uses in his meeting of Rocky, and building a relationship with him, whether he remembers or not, are skills a good educator and mentor uses.

To not assume ill intent. To approach first with curiosity. To explain difficult concepts in a palatable way without condescension or malice. To empathize with one's situation and acknowledge how it may shape one's responses. To exercise patience. To adapt and shift gears in the face of uncertainty. To remain calm in the height of stress and remain a leader.

Grace as a scientist yes, but as a teacher, maintaining an openness to not only work with Rocky, but to also embrace his differences and utilize his strengths to find creative solutions that benefit both of them.

History is fraught with disputes and wars driven by ignorance and sustained by fear of unique cultures and experiences that are different to our own. It is practically in our DNA to reject or fear that of which is different to us, and so it is not weak to trust or to be kind. It is harder to be these things, because the opposing forces come so effortlessly.

Grace's inclination toward 'flight' instead of 'fight' is not an indicator of weakness. It is preservation. It is learned behavior. To take a step back, recalibrate and approach again. You do not win students over by being a fearless dictator. You win them over by treating them like people, and acknowledging where you yourself have room for growth. Ryland Grace is a coward for many reasons that define his narrative, but being trusting and kind are not among them.

[part 1] [part 2]

Halo💫