Pinot Grigio

Taryn raises an interesting point about the extent to which our personal lives need intersect with our professional--cuz that what it is, a profession--lives as teachers. The issue of sexual orientation, for me, is especially poignant because, though straight, I find the assumption that I'm straight somewhat perplexing. I probably will never have nor will I feel the need to announce to the class that I am straight: it's what's expected, it's what's "normal", it's simply an unmarked assumption. However, what kind of predicament does this put a homosexual into? Knowing that they are entering into a situation in which their perceived sexual orientation will most likely be wrong, do they have a right to disclose their lifestyle to their students? A responsibility? Why is it okay to discuss what my wife and I did over the weekend but not okay for me to talk about the movie my boyfriend and I saw? Is there even a difference and if so, why and if so, do we do anything about it? In trying to establish some sort of bond with our students, is information like this counterproductive or necessary for fostering an emotional connection? And Taryn, what if you were an alcoholic? Is that something that should determine whether or not you're hired? Or whether or not you can be an effective teacher? Of course, I'd like to think we're inclined to say "absolutely!" if for no other reason than to this day we insist on berating the legacy of our former democratic president for a character flaw that in no way influenced his presidency. Character matters, especially in America and, damnit, especially in schools. What about religion? I can wear a cross on my neck with a certain degree of freedom that I fear doesn't exist for someone who wishes to wear a Star of David or turban. Right? Wrong? Briefly regarding Janet's question about the differences between teaching reading versus literature, I liken it to the difference between humans and mammals: all teaching of literature will inevitably involve some sort of reading instruction but as per our discussion today which, according to Nick was interesting (thanks, Nick), not all teaching of reading will or necessarily should involve literature. There we have it. Now you know the rest of the story.