And We Do It All Over Again

This is the week of pre-planning for teachers in the SE. The ’25-’26 school year has presented itself, whether we want it to or not. Theses are the moments we get to check our ‘why’ all over again. As I sort through the papers and other items to throw out, my eyes came across a thank-you card perched on my desk. I read it one more time. I needed this. This one will not be trashed, it will be treasured. It reminds me of my ‘why’. Why I have been doing this all over again for last last few decades.

Inside the card:

‘Your joy is contagious. Everyday you fill the classroom with your enthusiasm and [the] peace you bring to everyone around you. You are not only an incredible teacher but also an exceptional human being. Always willing to help, listen, and care for each of your students as if they were part of your family.
Your dedication is inspiring, and I will always carry with me the lessons and moments shared by your side. I hope life gives you back all the love and light you give to others many times over.
Grateful to God for having been assigned such a kind and big-hearted person like you. I will truly miss you.‘

This was given to me by a former student of mine who decided explore the pathway to serving students in some capacity. ‘Bella’ interned with me as my assistant for a few months. She was the help I didn’t know I needed. This angel was everything I was not – in so many ways. I miss her in a million ways. It looked like she needed me as much I needed her. These are some of those ‘God moments’ we learn to embrace and cherish in every lifetime. May we always practice seeing God’s love in the simple details. He has a way of showing up in the unexpected. Giving us things and people we didn’t know we needed. For this, I am forever grateful.

“Your grace, sense of style, and warmth never ceases to amaze me. This is me admiring you from across the room. You doing everything I hated to do – with such heart. You brought quiet calm to my space.”