A Calling

Well, another year has come to an end. How long have I been doing this? Started in 1969. Took some time off here and there. Four years in South Carolina or was it five. One year I was an assistant principal. Single father--MoDad as the boys labeled me. One year off just because I needed a break. Thought I wouldn't be back. God has never seemed to be interested in that plan for my life. Four years taking care of Mom. Thought I was done once more. Yeah, sure. Sent me back again. I think teaching may be His calling on my life.

Never expected a year like this one. It's been more exhausting than being in the classroom every day. I hooked up with the kids as much as possible. Had to see them. Tried to teach them some things. As always, I learned a long time ago--it's not what you teach them that they'll remember but how you loved and cared for them. Even if they do remember something you taught them, they probably won't remember it came from you. And the things pertaining to faithfulness and the joy of serving Him, the Spirit will remind of those things when the time is right. They will remember if you loved them; they will remember if you loved Him.

This year's class has been resilient, brave and very courageous. I love them tons. Can't wait to see what God has in store for them as He molds them into His likeness. It will take resilience and bravery, and courage along their journey.

For me as I grow older, one of the blessings I have needed is the friendship and passion radiating from the staff and my fellow teachers. Not that I've given up on being a hermit, but their friendship has been a catalyst for continued faithfulness in my life. And, no, I'm still not a fan of education, but, yes, I still love teaching--starts with the kids. I do love them. And truth. What will next year bring? I don't know. If He gives health to my bones and passion to my spirit, I am fairly certain I know where He wants me to be..

Ah, well. My summer in hiding is here. Physical labor, walks, horticulture (just so you think of me as a scientist once in awhile), reading, writing, (no arithmetic or hickory sticks--well, maybe a hickory stick or two dropping on my head.) Again, my years start in May--and finish; 13 month year? Iris at The Acres, another year of teaching seniors and sending them out into the world to take the name of Jesus with them.

See you in the Fall, Lord willing. Love you any of the Class of 2020 who is reading this. Be good!