I really do think, that when teachers begin teaching they are idealists. I also believe that idealists with nothing more than ideals to hold onto become bitter and burnt out.
I do not know if I have what it takes to be inspiring. I also do not know if I really have the dignity and honor that it takes to give of ones self everyday from 6 to 5 without the promise of tangible reward. However, I do know that I am much more than an idealist, I am a believer. I do have a rock that can and will always carry me through. This "unseen support" is my inspiration, my dignity and my honor. In the great I AM I can persevere in the calling that I have received, I can indeed teach.
I want to teach because I want to pass on this inspiration to students.
I want to teach because education is a gateway out of poverty.
I want to teach because I know that it is something I love.
I want to teach so that I can see the look of understanding in the eyes of my students after working hard.
I want to teach because it is my calling.
It is only with God's grace that these things will be accomplished.
I believe the moment I decided to teach was the moment that my 4th grade teacher really believed in me. She encouraged me to write, actually. She saw potential in a very shy 4th grader and I will be forever grateful for that. I also am very interested in missions work with children and, after much experience on the mission field I have come to decide that education is vitally important in missions today. I am so excited to see how all of these interests combine.
The facts:
I am not very picky about what grade I want to teach. I usually answer with either 2nd or 3rd grade. I would not be surprised if I ended up in a one-room school house in a hut somewhere, no joke.
This semester I hope to learn a lot, because I have come to realize that there is a lot that I need to learn. Technology test to make me a bit "weak in the knees" so I both excited and apprehensive to be taking this class. I hope to gain confidence this semester and to develop skills that will help me in the future.
Thanks for sharing your story and thoughts. I sense a passion for teaching and learning and that will provide what you need to keep going when the going gets tough. I look forward to seeing where God will lead you and know that the time here at NU will prepare you for the place that God has for you.
ReplyDeleteDev Dev
ReplyDeleteThis was elegantly expressed (as you usually tend to do) and like Professor Sorenson said, your passion for teaching, kids, and God shines through. I know that you will be equipped for whatever and wherever God calls you to. I also enjoyed the tidbit about your fourth grade teacher, I didn't know that! Pretty cool, have you told her that? If you haven't, you should. Anyways, keep up your hard work with everything you do, and remember to let yourself have a healthy and revitalizing rest every once in awhile...it's good for the soul...See you soon!
Devon,
ReplyDeleteI really laughed like out loud when I read your part about not being surprised if ended up teaching in a one room school house hut somewhere. I enjoyed reading this article about you. It was really cool how your 4th grade teacher made such an impact on your life and I'm sure you will do exactly that with your students wherever you teach-even if it is in a hut. :) God will lead you right where He wants you to be and equip you with all the inspirational tools and teaching tools you will need. You are going to be a great teacher.