Counselor’s Corner - November 1, 2022 Edition

Dear Teachers,

A week ago, father Michael McGuire got off of work and rushed through commuter traffic.  He had an important appointment to make and a promise to keep.  Waiting for him to arrive at Rupp Arena on University of Kentucky's campus was his young son.  Clad in his Blue UK fan gear, his son eagerly awaited the arrival of his daddy.  And like clockwork, the dependable dad showed up...except his was covered in soot from head to toe.  Having left his job at the coal mine, this faithful and ever-present father showed up to be by his son's side.

Having spotted the dark-sooted face among the cheering fans, UK head Coach John Calipari tweeted, "My family's American dream started in a Clarksburg, WV coal mine, so this picture hits home.  From what I've been told, after his shift, he raced to be with his son and what our team.  Don't know who this is, but I have tickets for him and his family at Rupp to be treated as VIP's!!"  Soon followed suit from restrainers and hotel managers, promising food and lodging for the family's visit.  For his hard work in the mines and faithful presence as a father, Michael McGuire received VIP treatment.

And you, there in your classroom, are promised VIP treatment, too. Because you faithfully day in and day out work labor to mine student-gems, your Heavenly Father shows up.  He promises to be there like clockwork so he can cheer alongside you.  He sees the days that your weary and come away from work covered in teacher-toil-soil.  He notices the soot of exhaustion, insufficient self-care, and imbalance of personal life, and promises to reward you.  He gives a heavenly shout-out for you to be treated like His VIP's and holds a very special place in His arena for the way you've invested in students.  

"Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him."
James 1:12

Gratefully,
Mindy Salyers
SDA School Counselor