Knights of Acton

This week in Acton Chesslandia learners received the call to knighthood. The knight chess piece moves forward two spaces and then to the side “gallup, gallup, step to the side” (a fun new dance move for many). As we began learning about knights, their moves, their shields, and the qualities of a knight’s bravery, I felt stumped by why only the knights move in this interesting way. All other chess pieces either move straight or diagonally but the knights are complex. Then, my answer was found in the studio with our learners!

To explore the call of knighthood learners began creating their very own knight shield made out of cardboard. They chose their paint colors and selected a special spot to create. A learner closest to me created best as she chatted and I loved to be her ear. She shared “I didn’t know what I was going to paint but the colors just spoke to me and I put all of who I am into the painting of my shield, I know I inspired other people but they can’t copy me, they can only paint who they are, that’s all we ever can do is be us”.

As brushes continued to flow I noticed the river of kindness visiting friends throughout the studio. I heard “Wow, your shield is amazing, you really painted beautifully” “Your shield is so inspiring” “I love your shield, I had no idea it could look like that, great job”.  There wasn’t a single ill word, whimper, or tear during this process, just joyful creativity and an abundance of compliments. I was overwhelmed by their kindness to one another and honestly I was so proud to be a witness.

The love, kindness, and empathy is overflowing! It has taken a while but these beautiful learners have officially created their community, their owl family that supports and loves fiercely. They are the Knights of Acton who step forward each day and just like the knight chess piece step to the side to make room for their fellow travelers and share the journey as an Acton family.