On Teaching

This fall I've been substitute teaching in the local school district. Last spring I got my feet wet subbing and it went well. As the new school year began, I was eager for more opportunities to work (this is my income here) and get some experience. So far, substitute teaching has been rewarding. Teaching has many blessings, but since this is just a blog, I'll highlight a few. First is exercising my love for kids. Since I was in Jr. High, I've enjoyed helping with kids. Be it baabysitting, Sunday School, or relatives and friends; I've always enjoyed playing with kids. Now I spend my days in a school full of K through fifth-graders. They are easy to love. Bearing down and balancing work and fun time are hardest right now. Second are the relationships. It's nice to be in a place I get to meet so many new people and actually build relationships -- with kids, parents, and the teachers and staff. So many kids run up with a grin and hug excited to see me. The parents are often helpful and concerned. The teachers and staff have been welcoming, appreciative, and accommodating, knowing we're all a team. These relationships -- daily interactions -- are so refreshing after a slow time plugging into the community. Third is the experience for growth. I'm building physical stamina getting up and active every day. I've grown socially, as I mentioned, by meeting and working with so many people. Mentally, I'm learning so much, including Spanish, teaching skills, and facts and strategies I'd forgotten years ago. Spiritually, teaching has been great for helping me really minister to and with others, screw up so I can build character, and rely on the Lord in strenuous circumstances. There is so much about teaching that frustrates me, but so much more that I haven't found elsewhere. Those rewarding experiences and the opportunity to do good for others make teaching a great profession. It may not be for everyone, but I really enjoy it.