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1.20.2014

TenThousand Hours -- Thank You Mackelmore

For some reason, this year I have often felt frustrated and tired about continually trying to voice the importance of art.  In the past it was a much more positive venture for me and this year it's harder.  Perhaps it is because I feel like I have less support - more people I'm trying to convince and show that Art is more than singing notes or learning to mix colors.....

But even though I have struggled more with this, this year - I by no means plan to give up or give in - I am far too stubborn for that.

In times when I feel this way the song Ten Thousand Hours by Mackelmore and Ryan Lewis always gives me a spark of energy and truth.  This is not the whole song, and I have underlined the parts that feel so very real to me.

(There is a verse before this part)

A life lived for art is never a life wasted
Ten thousand

Ten thousand hours felt like ten thousand hands
Ten thousands hands, they carry me
Ten thousand hours felt like ten thousand hands
Ten thousands hands, they carry me

Now, now, now
This is my world, this is my arena
The TV told me something different I didn't believe it
I stand here in front of you today all because of an idea
I could be who I wanted if I could see my potential

And I know that one day I'mma be him
Put the gloves on, sparring with my ego
Everyone's greatest obstacle, I beat 'em
Celebrate that achievement
Got some attachments, some baggage I'm actually working on leaving
See, I observed Escher
I love Basquiat
I watched Keith Haring
You see I study art
The greats weren't great because at birth they could paint
The greats were great cause they paint a lot
I will not be a statistic
Just let me be
No child left behind, that's the American scheme

I make my living off of words
And do what I love for work
And got around 980 on my SATs
Take that system, what did you expect?
Generation of kids choosing love over a desk
Put those hours in and look at what you get
Nothing that you can hold, but everything that it is
Ten thousand


Ten thousand hours felt like ten thousand hands
Ten thousands hands, they carry me
Ten thousand hours felt like ten thousand hands
Ten thousands hands, they carry me


(more verses after this)

3 comments:

Leslie McReynolds said...

I totally get it, we all have years where we feel unstable and question every single we do. You are a rock star art teacher, take a break from advocacy and just focus on your classroom and your students. Lay low and recharge for awhile. You are an inspiration to thousands of people just the way you are! Hang in there, tomorrow will be a better day!

Ms Novak said...

All I can find to say is, "Thank You". I truly mean that.

I needed to hear that, and I didn't even know it.

Thank you.

Anonymous said...

This is the first time I've been to your site, but I will definitely be back. Not only for the art ideas (I homeschool my daughter), but for your remarks. I've taught P.E. in the past, and currently teacher future P.E. teachers. You're most recent topics (the importance of the field, working with special populations and incorporating core subjects) hit home with me. I often feel I'm fighting a losing battle, but do find working with future teachers can be encouraging. If you don't already, you may want to consider working with student teachers. Their enthusiasm can keep you inspired while you pass along your passion for the field.