Eleven More Years

Today was the first day of school for students. Just in case some random person is reading this, I am starting my 5th year as one of the school counselors at Pleasant Grove Elementary. One of my co-workers and I were adding it up today, and this is my 14th year in education. That is so bizarre to me, but what is even more crazy is that I can retire from education in 11 years (not counting this year). I'm not sure how to feel about this. Part of me is thinking, "woohoo! that's awesome!" But another part of me is a little weirded out by the fact that I COULD RETIRE IN 11 YEARS. Oh my! I'm not old enough to be that close to retirement. Granted, I won't even be 50 at that point in my life, but still.... I mean, I don't have as much time left to work as I have already worked (does this sentence even make sense?).

I have not been very excited about this year. Before becoming a counselor, I taught 7 years at the high school level. Being with elementary age children for the past 6 years has gotten old. Kindergarteners are cute, but don't put me in a room with 18 of them, for 45 minutes, by myself; it's almost more than I can handle. Needless to say, I'm ready to go back to the older ones; have been for a couple of years now. This summer I interviewed for a high school counseling position and felt really good about the situation. I heard good things about my chances of actually getting the job. I never got the phone call, though. I wasn't devastated like I have been in times past when I didn't get the job I wanted. I love the people I work with and despite all my gripes, I love my boss. All things considered, I have a great job; I'm just ready for a change.

I said all that to explain why I haven't been very excited about this year. The Lord keeps reminding me that I'm right where I'm supposed to be for the time being. I have to rest in knowing that my God has a perfect plan for my life and right now, it happens to include being in the classroom, by myself, with about 18 five year olds, for 45 minutes a few times a week. I also know that He will give me the grace to endure.

My prayer for the year is that I will love my children well, be able to see their hidden needs and do what I am able to do to make them better, serve and love the people I work with, and be Jesus to those who may otherwise never see Him. Lord, keep reminding me that You, in Your sovereignty, kept me at PG for another year. Help me to rest in that. Enable me to love people and to let my light shine in such a way that they will see You, my Heavenly Father, and that You will be glorified!

Tomorrow is my friend/roommate's birthday...Happy Birthday Stephanie! I hope you have a great day!!!