I’m seated next to him. We’ve been conferring for a few minutes now.
The tick-tock of my watch reminds me I should move on soon.
His head low, shaking.
Pen gripped, waiting.
Eyes glued to the empty page, disbelief.
He wasn’t sure where to begin. He had an idea, a vision, a tiny speck of hope for what his story could be. Trust in the process? Not much of that. Trust in his abilities to string the story out of his mind? Not much of that.
Not the best way to end a conference, but I knew I had to let him go and decide for himself if he wanted to stay inside the struggle or take my advice and break free from it. Off he went.
I moved on, too. On to another writer.
A few minutes go by. I feel that rapid passing of time so particular to conferring. I glance over to his desk, wondering if he stayed or broke free.
Ahh. He’s free.
His hand in a synchronous movement. Words flood the page. Head low, focused.
I felt like stretching time just for him, but Spanish starts soon. They can’t be late. We announce it’s time to stop for now. Tomorrow, another chance to meet our writing.
They begin lining up. He tries to put down the last few words. Head lower, as close as not to let any thoughts escape from the page. One arm surrounds the notebook, keeping it safe from the exterior. One last word. Then, he joins the line. They leave the room.
I walk over to check out his notebook.
A story, his story. He got out and brought his story out, too.
I left a quick note and moved on with my busy day.
The next day, a message from one of his teachers: “Look what J posted next to his writing spot.”
Start with a Story 
Ana, this line is so good: “Head lower, as close as not to let any thoughts escape from the page.” We have all been there…when the thoughts are coming furiously and you just need to capture them on the page before they float away and disappear forever. The care and encouragement you’ve given this writer are noticed (and, by the student as well based on the placement of that post-it). I can’t wait to read more from you, Ms. Ana!
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The power of encouragement and space and a well-timed sticky note! Yes! You’re reminding me how those little notes of encouragement and belief can carry so much weight. I’m setting a goal for myself to write a few of these today!
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This slice captures the magic of working with you. What a lucky writer! And then to be blessed with a holy post-it from Ms. Ana too?! 😍🥹
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That belief is what will continue to fuel this writer. That note is the symbol of your belief in him. You matter!
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