The Pain & Joy of Teaching

There is a level of nuance and complexity in the role of educators that those outside of education cannot understand. From the challenge of managing 30 students at once, to the pain of giving everything you've got to a student only to see them drop out anyway, to shifting sands of technology and cultural norms--- there are aspects of this work that just aren't easy.

But educators also experience a unique joy and satisfaction. The delight of seeing a student learn a difficult concept for the first time, and watching their confidence grow in real-time. Witnessing a kindergartner read their first words. Watching that same kindergartner walk across the graduation stage 12 years later.

It's hard work, but beautiful work.

[nataliemeeuwsen]

Every word is perfect! Thank you so much from a retired teacher of 31 years. I loved my job so much.

[LORYBARWICK]

Great video. Mr. Muir, thank you for your calling and this video. We need to remember why we do what we do and who we teach!!!

[wendywvt]

I REALLY needed to watch and rewatch this today!!! 21 years in teaching and 2021 and 2022 is testing our ‘why we love this joy, this calling … teaching’ thank you

[marie-andreehueglin]

I will be sharing this! Thank you just doesn't come close! Shine on!!!

[roseking]

Teaching is not an easy job. You have to love seeing your students have the moment “I GOT IT”. WOW, it all become worth every late night, every hug a student needed, what you can do for those students who doubts themselves, I could talk and smile for hours about the love I have for my students.

[ThisisJskillz]

Great video Mr. Muir! You were one of my favorite teachers and I still remember your teachings during my freshman year of high school. I came across this video randomly while studying for one of my college classes, and I'm glad that I clicked on it. Keep it up! Seems like you're still as great a teacher as I remember.

[janicechoiniere]

As you spoke I found myself nodding, realizing how many points
we agree on. Although I treasure the time we spent together in class, I regret that we don’t have the chance to sit together as adults, discussing the perils and rewards of the classroom. You triumphed on the “Author’s Chair”, and now you triumph in the broader arena that is education!

[jefffunkhouser]

Many positive thoughts. Teacher in my 34th year. Can't imagine having the time or energy to create something this eloquent while also teaching full-time. But, please, DO preach as many need to hear it. Be safe.

[TeachersOnFire]

Beautifully done, Trevor. Thanks for breathing more oxygen in our fires at a time when it is desperately needed. 🔥

[sheridansteelman]

I love your videos, Trevor. New teachers should know that the job is challenging yet rewarding. And all of us need to recharge from time to time, reminding ourselves why we opted for this great profession - nothing like it! Thank you!!!

[ss-w]

So true! A nice pep talk for middle of winter as we head to June! Great use of backgrounds and transitions! Thanks for posting it. I'll be sharing!

[stephvanrooyen]

Thank you Trevor, I really needed that after my hectic day at school. What a Beautiful video.

[JamieRodrigueUptownWaterloo]

Excellent, Trevor! Love your work...so well produced...video, audio, b-roll, script...keep it up!

[robertanoller]

Your video just inspired a teacher to continue teaching. Thank you!

[SergioRamone]

Just awesome, man! Proud of being a teacher! Congrats! o/

[ElvisH]

I'm have to replay this video over and over. 😂

[Jtm_]

Okay my teacher sent me this I was like they just sent me this rn

[cynthiamurray]

And spreading the gospel message of Jesus Christ! ❤

[robertsanchez]

All of this, it’s part of the job. It’s a hard job. Lots of
Jobs are hard. Been doing it 20 years. We aren’t special. We are just doing that, which we are supposed to do.

Stop acting like a victim and get to work.