Today, after a long day, per my usual routine when I'm overly tired, I began to clean. For some reason, namely the 1/2 pot of coffee I consumed, I decided bulletin boards were not in the most effective locations and that the modular was still too cluttered for its own good. I took matters into my own hands as I pulled out the necessary tools. My aid laughed as I climbed on desks and tables to perform the necessary tasks. She jokingly informed me that the teacher before simply called in her husband for chores such as this, at which point a laughed as I exclaimed, "I don't seem to have one of those" so I'm the next best thing! Thankfully, this mission was accomplished without any casualties.
The results of this spontaneous mission were two-fold. Not only is the modular more organized than ever before, but it also gave me a sense of empowerment. Having cleaned the modular from top to bottom, a process that has spanned several long months, I have watch the modular transform along with my confidence. Knowing that there will never come a time when I can say that I have perfected the art of teaching, I can confidently say that it is the journey, its ups and downs, that make the ride worth while.
The past few months have served as a not-so-gentle reminder that nothing comes easy and instant gratification is over-rated. I have labored many hours over students; hours for which I have yet to see the fruit of my labor in many cases. However, I am hopeful that, if nothing else, I am planting a seed that will one day grow into something strong and uniquely beautiful.
I have learned the power of my own strength. I am confident and now know that I am capable of much more than I ever imagined. There is nothing more powerful than realizing that your potential is even greater than your expectations. Several parents and teachers have commented that I am wise beyond my years, which, if true, is both a blessing and a curse. I believe that with hard work, I can reach my goals and then some. However, the curse is that the results I often expect to yield are that of a veteran teacher. I strive to continually remind myself that within a matter of nearly two months, though I have achieved so much, I have a long road ahead of me...a road that is forgiving of the occasional wrong turn, a road that invites detours, begs for adventure seekers, and thrives on putting the pedal to the metal. Thank God for seat belts!
Along for the ride,
Ms. Phillips
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