"One Only Understands the Things One Tames."

Have you ever had a pet that knew you personally as it's owner?  An animal so loyal and true to you that it did all it could to please you?  Whether it be rolling over, sitting on command or fetching a stick, it was at your beckon call?  This is similar to how students are to their teachers.  All students? Not necessarily.  There is a catch to it.  The trick to students knowing their teacher's voice, understanding the teacher's expectations of them, and willingly contributing to the learning environment is due greatly to the fact of how the teacher treats, responds to, and connects with them.

In the text, a metaphor is presented in the form of a story.  A fox and Little Prince cross paths, and the fox decides he would like to befriend Little Prince.  This idea is approached by the fox pleading with Little Prince to "tame" him; to help him recognize his footsteps and voice from the many other boys. "The Little Prince is skeptical.  He is very busy, he explains.  He has so many things to do- so many things to understand.  The fox gives a simple reply:  "One only understands the things one tames." Little Prince decides to give the fox a chance, which in turn, ends in a wonderful friendship.

Just as Little Prince and the fox learn to care for and love each other, this can be likened to a teacher and his/her students.  Once connections are made, a form of trust is established between the educator and the children, and their roles in teaching and learning are on desirable paths to success.  The teacher can recognize their students calls for help and understanding, their facial expressions of doubt or comprehension, and their lack of action due to their confusion over a concept ONLY if the teacher offers a generous amount of "time, patience and listening" while learning to "tame their students."  

Just as the text mentions, "In the end, the fox and Little Prince must part ways, of course.  There is great sadness in the parting, but there is happiness born of fulfillment as well.  The two will be joined forever by the small memories they made together- the times they shared."  What a rewarding outcome an educator receives when making beneficial and mutual connections with their students!  As a future teacher, I hope (and expect) to find joy and satisfaction in establishing relationships with the children I am given in my classroom.  Clearly, school is not just about academics.

(Ideas and focus based upon chapter 1)