By My Side
Dear Readers,
So, this happened on Friday...
I'm BM Williams Primary's Teacher of the Year for the 2020-2021 school year.
Can you believe it! I mean this year has been so crazy- you guys would have had to pick the craziest staff member to represent us- and I am truly honored.
In quiet moments, I find myself drifting off thinking about it- how did I get here? who do I thank? What happened to me that influenced me to be this type of teacher- this type of person?!?
Then, I realized that it all can be summed up with the phrase- by my side.
I grew up in a big family and I learned how to live life with my siblings and parents by my side always. When I got out in the real world in college and in my career. I had lots of friends, but I didn't live life in the same way. I shared common interests with people around me, but I rarely did all of life with the same group of people. Life with others became more grouped and scheduled. It didn't always make sense to share all parts of my life with everyone I met and knew. In addition, I had more lonely and "quiet" moments I didn't know how to handle. So, I filled those moments with work and pride- to prove to myself I could do all things on my own- by myself- not necessarily needing anybody else.
Now, I'm just the opposite.
I value the company of others far more than trying to change the world on my own.
I'm inspired by the lives of others and I feel like a stronger person when I welcome other people to live life with me-by my side. They bring me so much perspective and insight. I am constantly pushed to consider and pray on new ideals, customs, and cultures. In all my experiences with people, I've always come out with more wisdom, patience, empathy, and grit.
Even when I differ in opinion or come into conflict, I am challenged to love beyond myself and forgiveness often. Those things are never bad for the soul. I've learned not to discriminate based on age, gender, race or ethnicity- there is always something you can learn from someone else- especially a child.
They are so rawly innocent and hungry to be loved and cared for.
I am constantly reminded of it as I have Baby Miles home with me during this season of virtual teaching.
My mom comes over to help about two hours into my daily teaching- so my morning lessons start with Miles and me always. Since I'm a breastfeeding mama, he rarely gets screen time but I know he's there and I can't explain how full it makes my heart knowing I have him there with me.
He reminds me of my "why" behind becoming and still being a teacher at this time.
It is purely about the children.
I've always had this child-like, optimistic view of the world and, am still very much a dreamer by nature.
That is why I get along with kids so much- because they genuinely think I believe in them and have their back. Which is true! I really do think that way!
Being in the presence of my 6 week old son at work, reminds me of who I am and how I think.
Kids need that in this world.
And, his mama, well, she's one of the best .
He reminded me of that.
I still have more juice in me to give to this profession and this school year.
Your nomination and honor only pushes me to give and serve as the Lord leads.
The virtual gig is extremely new and very unchartered.
But, with a child by my side during work hours,
a husband and kids by my side during after hours,
a faculty/staff by my side during this school year,
and the many friends/ family I have by my side all over this city and world.
Who. can. dare. stand. against. me.
Thank you Lord for changing my life to be the type of person who lives life with others by my side.
May I always stay this way and pass down this type of living to my own kids.
Again, I am honored to be your TOY this year.
I would be kidding myself if I didn't acknowledge that YOU - family, friends, and coworkers- aren't part of this celebration.
With you guys by my side- I feel invincible to do God's will and tackle the world's problems one day at a time.
Thanks for living with me and loving me.
Love. Always,
Crystal
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