Wash of orange,
I feel the colour
a sweet, deep calm that envelops me,
I am safe there.
A wash of acceptance,
I feel the warmth,
love wrapping me with honesty,
I am safe there.
This poem comes out of a visualization exercise during which my thoughts were focussed on body senses – a colour, a person, a message from that person. A message that would be hard to hear – something that I needed to do or change.
Out of personal vulnerability, I came to this visualization with a longing for the warmth of a hug and a need for a gentle nudging. I could only accept this nudging because the message came out of a deep love and respect for me. I felt safe – willing to listen and accept.
As a metaphor for classroom assessment, this experience has shed light on various conditions or pillars for effective feedback: acceptance, honesty, respect and hope (to name a few). Students and teachers need to nurture an environment of safety and trust before assessment feedback can be given and accepted.