God--
This is one of the nights I dread every year. The last night of summer. The night before school starts. In the morning, I'll meet a hundred and forty new people with whom I will share a classroom...and hopefully my heart.
The introvert in me squirms at the thought of tomorrow.
I wonder how in the world me--little me--ever got placed in this big, beautiful, bold school.
And that's when You reminded me: I was placed. I was placed here by You. This was no mistake.
So, here we are again. Year Nine. And my insecurities are basically the same. Will they like me? Will they listen to me? Will they learn from me? Will they get along? Will they feel safe? Wanted? Welcome?
Your words: Be still.
My prayer is that You would bond these kids and myself together. I pray for deep relationships, not surface-level knowledge. I pray for moments of true academic achievement and also moments of deep, uncontrollable laughter.
Grant me the energy and the enthusiasm that these Loves are worthy of. Give me grace for myself when I still fall short.
Grant me the discernment to know when a kid needs a hug. Give me grace for myself when I miss that opportunity.
Grant me the creativity necessary to make math fun and engaging. Give me grace for myself when I'm boring as hell.
Grant me the patience needed to answer the same questions all day long. Give me grace for myself when I sigh out loud. And grant me the courage to apologize for that sigh immediately.
Help me embrace these Loves like You embrace them. Remind me daily that they are Yours--beloved, valued, and worthy of my best.
Help me be the teacher You had in mind for them. Help me learn their stories. Help me be a light.
