Appreciate life, peace, just love. The words my dad used after every post on Facebook during his 3 year journey with brain cancer. I write about it often, carrying it on as he asked during our lunchtime conversations. For many, this time; knowing your fate of terminal illness and the anxiety that comes with that, would break us emotionally. After the initial diagnosis, I never saw my dad waiver from God’s love and promise. The relationship that blossomed during this time was beautiful, contagious, infectious, and timely.
I recently listened to the gift He gave me before dad transitioned home, a recorded conversation we had one morning. He spoke of how proud he was that I was there, helping mom, and being strong during this time. How I was just like him in many ways. There’s not a day I don’t miss him or our daily conversations. I hear him when I speak to my staff and when I discipline my own children.
One thing I hear in his voice, during our conversation, is gentleness. Nothing like I’ve heard from my dad before. The tone was different, as if he was talking from a different place of this heart. A place I instantly connect to and find comfort in when speaking to kids. The preparation of just the right words during confrontation or anxiety. Non-judgemental, filled with love, and grace; the Holy Spirit in action.
We all move through cycles of life. Different people come in and out of our lives for different purposes. Dreams and ambitions change as our experiences and opportunities grow. Problems arise and how we deal with them are the teachable moments. This week I’ve found that I must always stop and confront anxiety head on; run not away from it but to God.
I have one more day before my Charles family returns to school. Many will have great stories of joy and love. Others will have experienced fear, sickness, sorrow, trauma, and even death. I pray all of us can use the same gentleness in our tone and responses as we listen to each story. All of our own experiences over break will define how we move forward. As educators, we constantly serve others, which feels like we ignore ourselves. I challenge that thought. Through our service of others we are doing His plan. It is our daily actions that nourish our souls to do better. To be better...something our world desperately needs right now.
Hence the name and purpose of this blog; Just Love What You Do. I enjoy the connections I find to my faith, my dad’s teachings, and this leadership path. More importantly, I aspire to find the voice of every student and every teacher. This month we are focusing on self- control as a county. Through self- control, you will also find gentlensss. How might you model gentleness as we begin a new year? What will you listen for and where will you offer the fruit of the spirit?
As always, I leave you with a song. I pray your days are filled with peace and love, and that you may model the fruits of the spirit to those around you.
Just Love,
Kirsten
“Let us be calm and aware of Your presence.
Let us experience the glory of Your goodness.”
~Kari Jobe
