There are so many ways that I can reason to how I got here; to this place, right now. But, instead of that, I want to say this:
- Years ago my mother warned me to never let my teaching credential lapse because we never know what's coming next.
- I listened and even though I had a newborn (often) and the classes were for teachers who had actual students ( I made mine up), I completed every course needed to renew my license multiple times. And I never knew why I would need it.
- I moved to CA on faith. Faith that whatever is coming is better than what I was leaving. But having no clue as to what that would be.
- I made a vision board. It is a reminder of what I want to see in my life. I look at it every single day. It encourages me.
- I prayed for a job that was part time and near where I live. The answer came from an educators website and it led me to a school downtown.
- At the interview (for a job far below my pay-grade and education level) I was hired on the spot. Then, I was asked to interview for the fourth grade job for the fall. I was told all about the school and even given tips by the principal of good talking points for my panel interview later that week.
- I studied every night that week. After the kids went to bed, I read everything there was to know about education. I recited it in the shower. It was my focus.
- I went to an interview on a Friday and was told they would have their decision later the next week.
- The phone rang Monday morning and the principal offered me the job. (The job I didn't even mean to apply for/know I wanted). I asked for time to make this huge decision. And to figure out logistics of our life (daycare, the girls' school).
- Visited the on-site preschool in late May (when preschools are full for the fall) and they had room for MJ to come full time. And they would offer me a discount on tuition as an employee.
- Told the girls about the decision and both volunteered to come with me. To leave their newly beloved school to be with me; for us to all be together.
- Asked the HR dept. about my salary and benefits and came to learn they would be paying me for all of my units above my bachelors degree!!!!!!! And they pay a large percentage of the health care for the whole family, and dental, and vision.
- TOOK THE JOB!
- All summer I have been working tirelessly. I have hired sitters so I can work in my classroom. I have prayed for the students I will be receiving. I have cried, cussed and been elated at times. This is what I was meant to do. This thought keeps hitting me; It is good to be back.
Happy First Week Back to any teachers out there. But mostly, this whole post is a reminder of all of the ways God has carried me. He has shown me time and time again that He is for me, He is faithful, and all I need to do is believe and surrender. He has got this. He has got me. He has got them.
~ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.~ Jeremiah 29:11
