Sometimes life is a series of tiny little moments all flowing together, a combination of ups and downs, people, decisions, and days.
And sometimes it comes in chapters- a period in your life where you are in one place with one group of people and a nice, comfy routine.
I finished a big chapter in my life this week when I spent my last day as a classroom teacher.
For the past seven years, being a teacher has been a huge part of my identity.
It has brought some of my favorite people into my life.
I have loved my students like my own children and grown attached to many of their precious families.
I have worried about them, celebrated for them, cried with them, laughed with them, and spent many an hour praying for them.
Some of my happiest moments in my life thus far have been spent with my students.
I've been the teacher with the door that's always open.
They know I will listen to them.
They know I will help them.
They know I care about them.
And care I do.
I watched my last class graduate Friday night, and it was a strange feeling.
I don't believe new identities are ever easy.
Change itself is enough to bring fear into our hearts.
And while I'm not scared about what the future holds in this next chapter of my life, the one that won't contain red pens or literature books or assemblies or club meetings, I am a little sad.
Being a teacher has truly been a blessing in so many ways.
But God has something else in store.
And although I'm not 100% sure about all of the details yet, I can say with certainty that the lessons I learned as a teacher will be right there with me.
Teaching has made me better.
It's made me more compassionate.
It's made me more patient.
It's made me a better mom.
It's made me a better friend.
And I fully believe that I learned as much from my students during the past seven years as I taught them.
So, as I move on to the next chapter in this little life of mine, I want to say thank you to my precious students. I've taught at four schools in my seven years and have made the most wonderful memories.
Thank you for letting me be a part of your lives; thank you for letting me be your teacher.
You are a beautiful person inside and out, and you have the same affect on those around you. Looking forward to hearing all about your next adventure!
ReplyDeleteI'm a new follower but it seems like you really enjoyed teaching! I hope your next adventure is just as fulfilling! :-)
ReplyDeleteYou have taught me so many lessons throughout life, inside and outside the classroom. I remember when I first really met you, I was taking the test to get in your class. I thought, "There's no way this short lady's gonna let me be in her class". I'm so glad you did :)
ReplyDeleteYou will always be a teacher at heart.
I miss you so much Mrs. Aldridge. Just know that the Davis Family always has your back. If you need us to come rescue you in Africa...we got you.
xoxoxoxo,
Molly Dee
Love this! I am also a high school teacher and I think it is important to reflect on the good things we have done (because they totally outweigh the bad things that happened during the year!)
ReplyDelete