Transition and Healing

IMG_4466There is an ornament that says “Special Teacher” hanging on our Christmas tree. It was given to me by a family member several years ago, and it is significant–nearly all of our ornaments have a special meaning–because it celebrates my career as a teacher.

I started teaching in the fall of 2005 just after I graduated from college, and after ten years, it’s difficult for me to think of myself vocationally as anything other than a teacher. Teaching is a big part of my identity.

But all of that is about to change. Continue reading “Transition and Healing”

My Beloved Students

Today, I went to school to say goodbye to my beloved senior students on their last day of class. Though I didn’t teach them for the full year, I love them with my full heart. I will be praying for each of them as they embark on the next part of their journey. My prayer is that God works in them and through them and that He draws them ever closer to Himself. They are some amazing young people, and I just can’t wait to see what God is going to do with their lives. Continue reading “My Beloved Students”

Joy and Appreciation

IMG_6656 - Version 2Last night was our Staff Appreciation Dinner at Morrison Academy Taichung. Every year the board graciously treats the entire staff (teachers, maintenance workers, principals, administrative assistants, tech guys, cleaning people, cooking staff, etc.) to a formal dinner party. It’s the one time of year that you’ll see all Morrison personnel dressed in their finest, and it’s a very festive event. After the meal, there is a time to recognize people who have served for 5, 10, 15, 20… years in the school system as well as a time to honor and say goodbye to those who are leaving at the end of the year. Continue reading “Joy and Appreciation”