AWE-Ha Moments
One of my favorite things about being in education is partaking in students’ journeys and seeing them develop and grow into the men and women God has called them to be. During this journey, one of the most rewarding and exciting aspects is watching students having “aha” moments—when the student/athlete/musician/disciple discovers a new understanding of a struggle, problem, or concept that was incomprehensible just moments earlier. The idea suddenly clicks, the proverbial light bulb goes turns on, and they “get it” or “can do it.” You can see a student’s body language change in these moments. Their voice goes up an octave, their eyes widen, they smile, they laugh, and there is genuine gratitude and excitement. “Aha” moments can happen anywhere at any time: in classrooms, in hallways, on the field, on stage, and even on the ski slope. This is what learning ought to be about.
This year, I have been fortunate to take students grades 7-12 on FRCS AWE (Adventure and Wilderness Experience) outings. During these trips, students are taken on their choice of an outing into the great Colorado wilderness for an adventure. The purpose is to hit the pause button on being in the classroom and spend time outside while participating in community, conversation, and challenges. At the end of each outing, we create time for what I call “AWE-Ha” moments. The hope is for students to reflect on their outing and share any significant experiences, thoughts, sights, convictions, or ideas that occurred during their adventure and conversations from the day. I am blown away listening to the stories, insights, and connections students share. AWE-ha moments have included phrases such as “I never thought I could do that,” “I get it now,” “I never knew…,” “God is so good,” “I am so thankful for…,” “Wow, this place is beautiful,” “How is this possible?” “The teachers at FRCS truly do love me,” and my favorite, “Mr. Wall, you were right” (ok, maybe that last one is a little selfish). Students are then challenged to make a commitment to bring their AWE-Ha moment back to FRCS and weave it into at least one area of their everyday life.
True AWE-Ha moments connect us to our Creator. It is amazing what happens when we take time to pause and let the Holy Spirit speak. We see that God is in control. We recognize His power and His beauty. We experience gratitude for who He is, what He has made, and the abilities He has given us. These AWE-Ha moments can help transform us into the person God calls us to be.
