Reading Restler's first chapter of "What Do You Do That Can't Be Measured" made me think about how impactful one person can be. More so, how impactful I can be if I decide to be. It was beautiful to see how many ways youth workers came together in community and talked, laughed, and cried together. They also practiced radical care together in unorthodox ways like drawings, rubbings, and other artistic mediums. I was very saddened reading about how destructive viewing people as quantitative data points is to individuals and communities. When the teacher killed himself after being rated as "less effective" as an educator, my heart broke. As a former educator myself, I couldn't fathom my work with students being reduced to two words.
Some of the things I do that can't be measured revolve around interpersonal activities. I use my words to affirm others frequently. Giving people hope and encouragement cannot be measured. Caring for others, making space for someone's emotions and prioritizing their mental health and well-being makes a world of difference. Meeting people where they are at is also an act of radical care that I practice.
Hi, Symone! <3 Not only did the pic accompanying your post make me giggle in agreement but both your mention of Rigoberto Ruelas and the ways you give radical care resonated beyond words.
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