Together Again

This summer I accepted a face-face teaching assignment for the first time since 2020. The college had been ‘open’ for awhile but I hadn’t been on campus for over two years. Quite a number of signs were strategically placed all over welcoming back students, visitors and staff . As I drove around I couldn’t help smiling. There is something almost invigorating and energizing about the anticipation of ‘coming together.’ We are social beings and we do need each other. Normally I would have just passed by – focused on why I was there. After being away so long I developed a new appreciation for ‘coming together’. I had to snap some shots.

There is some truth to the saying that absence makes the heart grow fonder. I started to pay attention to details I would normally overlook. My class is in a fairly new building – even the designing elements got my attention. As I sat in the classroom, I had to re-acquaint myself with all the technology unique to these rooms. This was an occasion to laugh at myself a time or two as I was determined not to call IT support. I didn’t and was so proud of myself! 😊

This summer session is coming to an end and I have been having a blast with my students. I do love teaching in both modalities – in person and on-line. Blessed to be doing both.

For many of us, this is the first summer since 2020 that we feel comfortable being fully immersed in social events. Coming together is truly a beautiful thing. Whatever you choose to do – laugh, hug, play and make it memorable. Reconcile, forgive, heal, love, and talk. Find new hobbies; uncover hidden talents. Drive down a different road. Meet someone new and try something new. Discover the love of God. Life is a gift from God. Open the package everyday.

Find old friends – get together. Capture the moments -Take pictures! Use them to blackmail the subjects! 😂😂 We came out on the other side of a difficult time for many people. Many of us are still in the healing process; trying to move on from painful losses. Help someone. Pray for someone. Listen to what is said and equally important to what is not being said. Be patient and remember that hurting people often times see things though distorted lens. Be merciful. Extend grace to yourself and to others. Treasure the moments we get to ‘come together’.

This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it. — Psalm 118:24

A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones. — Proverbs 15:30

Give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love and His wonderful deeds for mankind, for He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things. — Psalm 107:8-9

*** Thanks for reading – Treasure the moments.