Too Much Information

Last week, I woke up to a message on Facebook from a former student, saying I had helped her start her healing process from an abusive relationship when I mentioned, in class, that I am a survivor of domestic violence. She thanked me for being honest and open and helping her save herself. I had no idea, but I do know that, statistically, someone in class needed to hear it.

Every semester, in course evaluations, I got complaints that I shared too much "personal" information. Also, every semester, I know of at least one student who was helped, moved, reinforced, and supported by something "personal" I shared. THIS, by the way, is why I share. This is why I talk openly about my learning disabilities. This is why I am transparent about surviving abuse. This is why I am open and honest about being a parent of a child with a disability.

For those who felt like I shared too many personal details, I don’t do it for you. I do it for the