Remember this moment when things are rough. Remember the
feeling of looking backwards and watching your class grow. You made an impact.
Other people noticed, and you’ve left your class better than you started. That
is something to be said. They were marginally one of the worst classes you knew
of. And now, they participate, their behaviour is better, they actually try to
speak English in class, and you know all their names. Like the musical
interlude in a movie where they only highlight the important moments, but
you’re filled with a sense of completion for having seen it.
You know the strengths and weaknesses of some of your
students, and you really did have a breakthrough a few weeks ago. You can say
you actually ‘whipped them into shape’ just in time for the new teacher. And
you’re actually a little sad that you can’t call them yours any more. You never
thought you’d say it, but it’s true. Part of you wants to keep them for
yourself.
And now you’re moving on to the complete opposite end of the
age spectrum. While you were preparing these kids for teenagedom, you’re now
working on the most basic life skills. Your kids are still a challenge, but for
completely different reasons. But you love them, and aren’t willing to give
them up. You just need to build the relationship with your co teacher back up.
She seems to distrust you as much as you distrust her.
But it’s only the beginning. In time you’ll look back, and
if you continue on in the way you are now, you’ll be able to spot the
differences, the changes you made in
these kids lives. They’ll remember the times you took to hold their hand, or
listen to them, or just to say a kind word or give an encouraging smile.
You’ll be okay. It seems like a lot of work right now. And
it is. Enjoy the times you can relax. They may be infrequent, but they’re
there. Go on a staycation, go for a walk. Paint, crochet, or write. Shoot
something (with the camera, of course). Make a target and throw crumpled ideas
at it. Clean. Chill. Watch those movies you’ve been meaning to watch. Read.
Read some more. Spend time with your husband. Spend time chatting with your
friends. Handwrite letters. Draw. Cook. Nurture a plant. Pray.
You are a caretaker, a giver. Love on something. Love on
someone. And make sure to take some time for yourself. Show yourself some love
too. You get these kids for the better part of every day. You might even see
them more than they see their parents. So love them as much as you are able.
Practice patience. And show them the grace that abounds from your creator.
You’re always in training for something new. Life
experiences are a big deal, and there’s a reason they fit together so well.
Take them in stride, and reflect. You never know when you’ll have a pop quiz.
March 7, 2014
