Thursday, February 21, 2008

Working on something...

Recently I visited my old grade school as an option for our kids' future education. It was such a blast from the past. I met old classmates who's kids currently attend there, and even "old" teachers that had led me through those formative grade school years.

One in particular was my 6th grade teacher, Mr. B. I'd have to say he was one of the most influential teachers/people in my life. He may not even know it. He was an amazing educator with a knack for getting us super-engaged into whatever he was teaching. The man was so good at his job, we were motivated to do whatever task he gave us, all for the hopes of gaining a "Muffler sticker." Which is exactly what it sounds like. A sticker. With a muffler on it. Again, either he was really good, or we were just starved for stickers with car parts.

The words he said to me were ones I always took to heart. He was the first teacher/person to stand back, and say with his gentle smile, "YOU can do anything you set your mind to." I told him then that I wanted to be a teacher. He smiled even bigger. Mr. B leaned in and said, "I was hoping so, because you will be great." That was it. My fate was sealed. I had the encouragement I needed to pursue the only job I have ever wanted.

I still love teaching. And not just kids at school. I've enjoyed all the places in my life where God has allowed me to teach others...teaching grad school classes, Sunday school classes, GEMS, and children's messages during church.

Funny thing is...I've still got a lot to learn. I can see that everyday as the Lord challenges me to lean on Him, call on Him, and point Him out to my children.


PS. I am actually working on something, too. One of the other things Mr. B told me I could be was a great writer. It's something I've always wanted to do, and after seeing him recently, and an odd dream I had...a story has been born. So, I'm working on it. Hoping to share it with you soon...

2 comments:

Emily Dykstra said...

Oh... don't you love how someone encourages you towards your future? You're an awesome teacher. I see how patient you are with those kids at children's church.

A writer, eh? I'm really looking forward to your work. It comes very naturally to you; you write the way you speak. Perhaps the church newsletter could have a sampling? :)

trevsmom said...

Anxious to see what you got brewing in writer's world? :-)