Counselor’s Corner Issue 35

Dear Upstream Swimmers,

Wednesday was a big day in our household. Canceled work meetings and two grade schoolers called for a Daddy Date. Pet Supplies Plus was the destination and tanks, rocks, and plants were the assignment. When their mission was complete, our 7- and 10-year olds hauled in their spoils and set about creating underwater habitats for "Heinz," "Abigail," "Clear-Eye" and the 8 other fish-turned-new-family-members.

Then they sat. Sat and watched. Sat and peered. Sat and commented. "How were the fish doing?" "Did they like their new home?" "Were they hungry?" "How did they react when fed?" On and on they chattered, gazing at the tank like it was a just-released movie.

And there was celebration. Celebration over the cool hiding spot Clear-Eye found beneath the log tunnel. Celebration over how Heinz easily adapted to his new aqua-home. Celebration for how Abigail quickly became accustomed to having a tankmate.

And yet there was worry, too. Worry over the one fish that seemed shellshocked at the change in temperature. Worry over how that fish's behavior drastically changed. Worry over how it seemed maladjusted and sideways. Prayers were shot up. Tears were shed. It didn't matter that all the other fish were doing great. Our daughters' concern was over that one fish who wasn't thriving.

I instantly thought of you in your classroom. I picture you sitting (on the rare occasion) and watching your students. You celebrate the improved handwriting of "Sloppy Joe." You celebrate how the newcomer quickly becomes accustomed to his classmates. You celebrate how "Loner" finds her spot in a social group.

And yet you worry, too. You worry over the student that seems shellshocked by the the Covid-world. You worry over the student whose behavior has drastically changed. You worry over the student that is maladjusted and sideways. And you shoot up prayers. You shed tears. It doesn't matter that all the other students are doing great. Your concern is over that one student who isn't thriving.

Thank you for your celebrating and worrying on behalf of students. Whether sinking or swimming, we can claim God's power as David did in Psalm 8:8, 9: "The fish in the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas; Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!"

Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming (Dory reference)!
Warmly,
Mindy