Time to catch up. I am really enjoying my new job. There is enthusiasm, hope, and learning happening every day- and that is just me! The teachers and students share that too! They have also been very gracious in welcoming me to the school. I have seen and heard wonderful exchanges of ideas and information in classrooms; I have experienced people willing to try new things; I smile as I go about my day.
Today, however, I encountered a teacher who was struggling. She was just plain overwhelmed with her classroom, students, new curriculum, a new grade level- life as she knew it was getting the best of her. As I talked with her, I began to reflect on how I have felt this way more than once. I could relate to her exactly! I knew the fear and panic that comes with feeling out of control and unsuccessful. My inner voice spoke to me... slow down. So, I said to her, "Slow down. Focus on one thing that will make your life a little easier, one thing you can control."
While I am not sure yet how her day ended, I know that our conversation ended with each of us smiling. Our spirits were comforted because we recognized ourselves in each other. What a connection to make. To those of you who find yourself in a similar situation, remember to breathe, go slowly and focus on only what you can control. Celebrate the small successes.
Remember that God walks with you each day- reach for His hand.
"We rejoice in our sufferings because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." Romans 5:3-4
