If you were to lose your eyesight, imagine what life would be like. If your friend could not see, and you were his guide, imagine that. My students responded in writing to these powerful situations. Then, they took a partner and a blindfold and participated in an experience they will never forget. With eyes covered, partners toured the school. Down the stairs, up the stairs and through the hallways they walked, putting one foot in front of the other, holding on tightly to their assigned guides. Many were fearful, some stumbled and lost footing and some were delighted by the adventure. After fifteen minutes, partners changed roles, giving each student the opportunity to lead and to be led.

In this profession, every single day, I think about the importance of vulnerability, responsibility and trust. To establish and gain trust, we need to experience vulnerability. Then and only then can we truly understand the responsibility of caring for and supporting another. And through this type of experience, empathy is born.

Trust Walk

Daylon’s Trust Walk Experience