Approval.

Everyday I work at the preschool holds some sort of epiphany or treasured moment. Today I was baffled by a particular little girl who insisted on playing with two other little girls that weren't treating her well. At this young and innocent age I see the very nature of "Mean Girls" being played out. The more the other girls treated her poorly, the more she sought out their acceptance and interaction. As an adult and teacher watching this take place I can clearly see that her best interest would be to seek a friendship with a child outside of this clique. For some odd reason, all she can see are these two girls who don't treat her the way any little girl should be treated and although she is hurt by their treatment, she mirrors the exact exclusive demeanor these girls show her with other children at the preschool. I know they are young and are just learning how to socialize, form relationships, and develop their own self confidence but I can't ignore the fact that so often we (adults) do the same thing.

How often have I found myself seeking the approval of those around me that reject or treat me poorly while under appreciating those who are such a huge blessing in my life and love me without conditions? 

This weekend I had the opportunity to spend time with some of those wonderful type of friends (blessings). We had a great time walking the streets of Walla Walla & exploring the Whitman campus. 

We just couldn't resist jumping into the Whitman fountain!

Such a wonderful group of ladies. 

What it Means Not to Choose a Job.

I just finished my second week of student teaching. This week I added on my hours at the preschool and it made the days only more exciting. Let me just introduce you to a few of the differences between the two classrooms I work in. In one classroom I am struggling to teach my children to stay in the lines when coloring a box while in my other classroom we are learning about the term algorithm and how it can make mathematics easier. I love it! Both age groups have their own challenges and delights. There are few things more enjoyable for me then sitting down with one of my preschoolers and reading them their favorite books but then there is the depth of learning in the 5th and 6th grade classroom that is experienced as we dive into different parts of the world and discuss why science exists. Never the less, both my classrooms require energy and patience.

Teaching isn't my job. Please don't misunderstand me, I am beginning my senior year in the education program of my university. I eagerly await the day when I march across the platform and receive my diploma and certification allowing me to officially become a teacher. I will without a doubt spend my life working endless hours, as most teachers do, and planning lessons but teaching is not my job it needs to be my passion, my ministry, and my service. The minute my career becomes a job is when I start losing focus.

I know there will be challenges this year and unfortunately I'll make mistakes but I know God will be able to work through me in spite of my shortcomings. As a teacher I think it will be just as important (if not more important) to spend time on my knees praying as well as time grading papers and writing lessons. I need God to fill my heart with love, patience, and understanding. He will give me wisdom when things seem out of my grasp. I am so glad I don't have to do this alone.

Here are just a few thoughts and goals I will have as a teacher--

"It is not our job to toughen children up to face a cruel and heartless world. It is our job to raise children that will make this world a little less cruel and heartless" -L.R. Knost

"Since it is so likely that our children will meet cruel enemies let them at least have heard of brave knights and heroic courage." -CS Lewis

"Every child deserves a teacher that believes in them, be that one."

Einstein said,"It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge".

Amen.

One of my awesome kiddos & I having fun.