Quitting.
It's crossed our minds at least ten times, maybe more...
Is anyone really benefitting? Is it worth our time? Couldn't someone else do a better job?
The fledgling program is disorganized without strong leadership, unified vision, or effective communication. Student attendance is inconsistent and unpredictable. Politically, it's a bit sensitive for us to even be in this position. Maybe it's time to phase out.
But when I saw my classroom full of faces yesterday, I knew Father was speaking persistence.
Make the best of the situation. Work with what you've got. Stay.
Cultivating the spiritual lives of young students is a long-term investment. I'm planting today. I pray the roots will go down deep, strong and secure. I pray that each one will grow and flourish and produce much fruit. But it won't be another decade or two until any of these establish their life orientation. I'll probably never know, never see the fruit of my investment now. I suppose that's a good thing, in a way, because I'm teaching this group entirely in faith -- that Father is using what little I can offer as a part of each child's journey to home.
For Easter we did a skit portraying the parable of the lost sheep. You know that story, the shepherd leaves the other 99 safe and seeks out the one who went astray.
He cares for each one.
He pursues each one.
I want to see my students with the same spiritual eyes, knowing that they are being called.
I want to be persistent and compassionate like the Shepherd.
I want to invest in the lives entrusted to me for one hour each week.
Please pray for our students, the other teachers, and me & Drew. Thank you!
Specifically, pray that we can connect on a heart-level with students.
Pray that our team of teachers can bond keep what's most important at the center of our efforts.
Wolf attack!
Shepherd to the rescue!
(Note the impressive acceleration, especially in that long robe.)
The little sheep rejoice!
counting the graces
thank you Father for
singing loudly in the sunshine by the trees, and on the family bike ride
patience
Lanzi offering to accompany me to buy vegetables and offering encouragement, extending friendship
ability to sort lies and truth
your requirements are simple
you have sustained Drew through a busy work schedule this month
Rachel, My first grade s. school teacher was Phylis Dean. I totally adored and loved her. We still have a special relationship. Seeing her at a National Conference during a painful time in life was like balm on my soul. Mae Blaude led Children's CH. I also deeply loved her (even though my mom grounded me from there for a bit because I talked too much). Mae was also my Pioneer Girl Pal. I had been longing that she would be my pal and my eight year old heart was full when that happened. Don't underestimate the fingerprints you are leaving on young hearts. I would love to talk to my dad about a special little person. Pioneer girl (boy) pal from across the ocean.
ReplyDeleteMary Ann, thank you so much! Phyllis Dean must have had several generations in her classes. She was also Drew's teacher! What you shared about your childhood experience caused me to recall memories from my own. I had forgotten the influence of particular teachers. I'm sensing the potential to reproduce that influence. Will email you about a special little person, thanks!
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