Inviting You to Share a Glimmer

I have always loved fall—for the crisp weather, cozy clothing, and of course, the excitement of a new school year. But this year feels especially meaningful to me.

As many of you know, last year I was unexpectedly diagnosed with cancer. At this time a year ago, I was at home recovering from surgery, bracing myself for the fight of my life. It was heartbreaking to miss the energy of a new school year and overwhelming to face so much uncertainty. There were moments of fear, tears, and doubt. And yet, within that struggle, I found something unexpected: the opportunity to reflect deeply on my life and my work while also receiving the generosity and care from so many of you and my whole professional family. These opportunities were a beacon of light for me in the past year.

One of the important realizations I had was this—I never once thought, If I don’t win this fight, why did I waste so much time on work? Instead, I thought, I hope I have more time, because I love this work and I want to give more to it. That was a powerful reminder of how privileged I am to do what I do.

This fall, I begin my 26th year in special education. More than half of my life has been devoted to this field—a field full of magic in small moments, inspiration in the creativity of educators, and joy in watching students exceed limits that others may have placed upon them. I don’t take that lightly. I am profoundly grateful for the chance to continue this journey, and I feel compelled to share that gratitude with you.

So I want to encourage you: don’t let challenges dominate your days. They will always be there, but in the big picture of life, most challenges are not as significant as they seem in the moment. Instead, notice the incredible experiences that surround us. Because every day in special education, amazing work happens. Miracles—big and small—are accomplished. And beauty is everywhere if we choose to see it.

A friend once introduced me to the word glimmer. A glimmer is the opposite of a trigger—it’s a micro-moment that brings joy, peace, gratitude, or wonder. And the more you train your heart and mind to notice glimmers, the more they appear.

This is especially true in a season like this—busy, yes, but also full of opportunities to find awe. The cool fall air, the vibrance of changing leaves, the nostalgia of a Friday night football game. Or in our schools—the smile of a student who feels seen, the laughter of colleagues, the quiet success of a breakthrough moment. All glimmers. All reminders that our work is deeply meaningful.

In that spirit, I invite you to join me in intentionally reclaiming joy in our profession. I’ve created a space for you to record and share your own “MASE Moments of Awe.” These are the stories—the glimmers—that highlight the beauty and importance of what we do. While sharing is completely optional, I would be so grateful if you would consider contributing one. Your story might be the example someone else needs to remember why this work matters so much.

Let’s shine a light on the good. Let’s lift each other up through the power of small, beautiful moments.

As we move through these busy weeks of the new school year, I hope you will pause to notice, record, and share your glimmers and Moments of Awe. May they remind you of the wonder all around us, sustain your spirit, and renew your sense of purpose.

It is a gift to be here. A gift to be well. A gift to live this work we love.

Amy Ernst (she/her/hers)

MASE President