Counselor’s Corner - May 8, 2023 Issue
Dear Teacher,
When I was 13.5 weeks pregnant, I ran a half marathon (13.5 miles). Having recently completed a full marathon the year before, I figured a half would be easy. I was strong, the pregnancy was healthy, and I was given the "a-okay" from my doctor. I thought, "I'm an experienced runner. I've got this. No problem."
However, despite my prior running experience, it was a struggle. It didn't matter that I had all the right tools -- Specially designed running shoes fit for my gate, waist water bottle, and energy gels. Yet, it wasn't enough that I had built up my endurance and resiliency over years of running. Rather, the fact that I was carrying an extra load (that sweet nugget of a baby bump) made it nearly impossible to cross the finish line. What success I felt, then, after putting one foot in front of the other, when I completed with arms held high in victory!
And you, teacher, there in your classroom, may feel the same. Yes, you've had prior teaching experience. Sure, you've put all the right self-care tools into place -- Time alone with God, mindfulness practices, and setting boundaries. Yet, it isn't enough that you've built up your endurance and resiliency over years of running. Rather, the fact that you're carrying extra load (health care issues, loss of a loved one, depression, anxiety) makes it nearly impossible to cross the finish line of the school year. What success you'll feel, then, after putting one foot in front of the other, when you complete with arms held high in victory!
So, as you trudge through the last few weeks of school, consider why this time is crucial (adapted from Teach 4 the Heart):
These last weeks are an opportunity to make a final impact on your students. You’ve spent so much time with them, you know them better now than ever. You have built a relationship. Keep your eyes open for opportunities to guide them, to leave them with those last few words of wisdom, to inspire them. They’ll listen better now because of your shared history.
This is a great time to reflect. What has gone right this year? What has gone wrong? Make some written notes about it, so you will remember them next year and can make any changes (and remember what you want to do again!).
Make a plan for how to use your summer wisely. Sometimes the summer flies by and you don’t know where the time went! You had things you wanted to accomplish, but didn’t get to them. Now is the time to really consider what you want to do before next school year, but also be sure to plan some time for rest and relaxation as well!
"So we must get rid of everything that slows us down, especially the sin that just won't let go.
And we must be determined to run the race that is ahead of us" [Hebrews 12:1, CEV].
Running alongside you,
Mindy Salyers
Christian School Counselor