Sometimes as teachers, we really don't know if we have made a difference. Students leave us, and we may never hear from them again. But some we stay in touch with, and it is those students--my "forever kids", that gave me so much to celebrate this week.
As I wrote on Tuesday, I've decided to take the district's early retirement package this year. It's a bittersweet decision. But it's what happened after I shared my news that I celebrate. The outpouring of love was amazing. Former students, parents, colleagues, all with words of love. I'll admit to screenshotting my Facebook post, so I will have all that love to wrap myself in when I'm feeling blue.
Just a few of many (Teacher confession--it feels like bragging to share these. I'm not, really. I am actually so humbled by all the comments...)
But it was the comment by a former colleague that made this all OK and connects right with Ruth's post about giving love away. He said to me, "Could you think of it as giving another person a chance to have all the great experiences you had? It makes it easier, in a way."
And, you know what? It does.
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This week's DISCOVER
Love comes back to you if you put it out in the world
I predict that there will be many more of these thoughts coming your way when they school year winds up. So glad that these people are showering you with love.
ReplyDeleteIt's not bragging it's a celebration of life long dedication to the amazing impact you have had with so many of your learners. Congrats :)
ReplyDeleteDeb- I feel the same teaching primary kiddos--do I make a difference and is am I using my time with kiddos to send the most important messages I can? Its clear You have been love and loved for and by many. Enjoy these last months with your students.
ReplyDeleteI love that final piece of advice, and want to say too that you are not bragging. You deserve all the love and hugs for your teaching and inspiring so many, Deb. As for retirement, I am in touch with many former students. One just celebrated the birth of his first baby! It is a joy to see them in their adult lives! So glad you shared!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great comment you were given by your colleague. Such a great way to look at it. Changes are never easy and it always helps to have the support of others.
ReplyDeleteIt's not bragging. Because it is true. Congratulations and all the best in this new season of life.
ReplyDeleteI can tell from this post that you seem to be finding some peace in your decision. I am sure you will have many, many of these types of celebrations along the way. "You made your heart a home" That says it all!
ReplyDeleteI absolutely know how you feel. I've been delivering a special library program for high-risk inner city kiddos, and I'm always left wondering if I'm really making a difference. I only get them for a short time, and they have so much else to deal with in their lives. But, if we can even make life a little bit brighter for a child, we've made a difference! Enjoy your early retirement, you will most certainly have earned it!!
ReplyDeleteThis is a beautiful post, Deb. I'm so glad you went ahead and took a screenshot of all those well wishes and shared with us the outpouring of love that came after you made your decision public. Those words are a testament to the power teachers have in the lives of their forever students, which is easy to forget or never know. You helped us all remember that we have this gift. Congratulations on your upcoming retirement too!
ReplyDeleteDeb, congratulations on your decision and your long career devoted to your students. It is such a joy reading posts that commend you for what you do best. Now on to contemplating what will you do in the next chapter of your life.
ReplyDeleteI feel happy for you. These kind of messages are better than any wrapped up gift.
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