In a way, it is hard for me to believe that this time has come. It seems like only last week when I walked out that classroom door and thought to myself, "Now it's time for ME!" I had big plans for the summer, most of them being things that I wanted to do just because I had not had time during the school year. Some of them I accomplished; some of them I didn't. Whatever the case, come next Monday morning at 8 A.M. I will be sitting in a teacher's meeting contemplating the next 10 months of my life.
Last night was our annual Back-to-School event with the usual supply distribution, schedule handout, and meet and greet. I found myself remarkably calm about the whole thing. This calmness is a bit of a shock to me. After all, our school has lost several staff members due to retirement and budget cuts, likely resulting in larger class sizes and increased demands on teachers. Within the past 2 weeks our school has experienced the added loss of 2 enrichment teachers, as they found positions elsewhere. Because of this, we face the possibility of beginning the year with at least one of those positions vacant for at least a few days. I have not revised last year's class syllabus yet and I don't have lesson plans down-pat for the first weeks of school, yet I still feel an inner peace.
I think this is largely due to the fact that I now realize I have a full-time support system.
Don't get me wrong.... I always had my husband and my kids here. I knew that they would listen to my complaints, offer up advice, and even try to help with the things that caused me stress, but I had forgotten about the one person who could actually GIVE ME REST. Participating in the Stressed-Less Living Bible study this year has really helped confirm to me what I always knew.... when I need a break there is really only 1 person who can truly give it to me- the Lord.
Matthew 11: 28-30 says
Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
God WILL give me rest! Exactly when I need it............ I only need to seek him and learn about him. The first part of 2013 has seen me renewing my dedication to Bible study and devotions and it has truly been wonderful!
Being so blessed by the last online Bible study, there was no doubt in my mind that I needed to be involved in the next one. This one will focus on the book, What Happens When Women Say Yes to God, by Lysa Terkeurst. Even though the Bible study begins August 4, it isn't too late for you to join us. You can check the Proverbs 31 ministry for more information.
Here's a link:
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