The week started so wonderful. Last Sunday evening Laura and I got together with all of the other teachers and some pastors from this area. We were able to share our experiences so far and to really encourage one another in the Lord. We prayed fervently, and for the first time I was able to see the big picture of why the Lord had brought each of us to this school district. It was such an encouraging time, and I left so excited to begin the week!
Then Monday came... As I mentioned in my previous post, the state department was at our school all week, so everyone was under a lot of stress and extra pressure. I felt like there were so many things that I needed to get done on top of my already survival teaching mode. So, each night my roommate and I were up till around 12 or 1...if you are a teacher you know that is way past bedtime! Anyways, on top of just feeling exhausted, my students were more than I could handle.
So many things have happened this week...too many to mention. It is hard to believe but four of my students were suspended by the principal for their behavior and one is probably going to join that number. 2nd and 3rd grade! WHAT? Yeah...behavior issues here are not the same. Talking to my mom the other day I was saying how I should be worrying about coming up with creative lesson plans and how to reach my kids different learning styles...the exciting work of a teacher. Instead, I don't even feel like I have been able to teach because I have been too busy trying to stop the constant chaos. On top of all of that, I found out that two of my students have serious mental issues. Basically, all of this threw me over the top this week.
I know that this post has seemed really negative so far. Sorry. :( I'm not writing so that you feel sorry for me...I hope that you don't. I still know that this is where I am supposed to be. I would just ask that you please pray for me. It seems that the Lord thinks I am much stronger than I do! There are certain promises that I am clinging to during this time. One is that He is faithful and that His love never fails. Another one is that He works everything for good to those that love Him. Finally, I keep reminding myself that His mercies are new every morning. I have to keep telling myself this daily. A huge blessing was that Friday was my favorite day so far....however, I had 8 absent! haha! It was the very first time that I was able to remember what it was like to be excited about TEACHING again and to have students actively engaged and excited. I am praying that next week is half as good as Friday! Thank you to those of you who have been praying and who been an encouragement to me. I truly appreciate it!
On a really positive note, this weekend has been really great so far. I just got back tonight from a staff retreat which was 2 hours away. It was in a beautiful lodge in the mountains...AMAZING beauty!! 3 deer were waiting for me as I woke up this morning. I am so thankful that I was able to enjoy God's creation as it was so refreshing. Also, there was a chance for me to share my faith with the whole staff by being picked to read my writing during a workshop. God is working, and I'm excited about that! :)
Now I am going to enjoy some Gilmore Girls with my roommate. :)
Here is a picture of me in front of the beautiful lake that Laura and I hiked to on our lunch break!
2 comments:
First of all, sorry about yesterday morning! I didn't mean to call you but didn't you like having me as a wake up call? What could be better? Just like the old days freshman year! Amanda, thanks for being so honest and sharing your struggles with us, that is how iron sharpens iron. God has you there for a big purpose and although you might not think you are getting through to them, I know your love for them is radiating out to them always. I think it is important just to get the behvioral issues taken care of before you even try to tackle the academic things. Just think of where they will be at the end of the year. I know easy for me to say, I am not dealing with the same issues but know that I want to help carry your burden and keep you uplifted in the sovereignty of our King. I love you and hope we can talk soon.
beth...we think you're so great. we're so thankful for you and your life. be encouraged. God is up to something!
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