Sunday, August 25, 2013

The Healing Power of Gratitude

I thinked a good thought earlier tonight.

I've been praying for a lot of things lately--some big, some small. Often, those things will work out. When I realize that after the fact, I realize that it was an answered prayer; when I recognize that, I try to remember to thank God immediately so that He and I can feel my gratitude. It seems like a healthy habit to get into--returning thanks for blessings instead of accepting them and moving on without another thought.

That's when I realized something else. I think that being grateful and expressing gratitude is softening my heart towards God, which is yet another thing that I've been praying for. I feel less defensive and more open. Softer. It feels like a small thing, but it's a tender mercy and represents progress.

Gratitude is great! I hope the trend continues.

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

God's Guiding Hand

Looks like I haven't posted on here in over 2 months. Oops.

Good news though: I HAVE A JOB! I'll be a substitute teacher.

I'm impressed with all the blessings that have come with this job, and the things it's made me think about.

  • Because of the circumstance, it was a pretty easy job for me to get hired for. I've had similar experiences with success on the first try for other important things, like getting into college and getting my student job. Part of me feels bad about it, and like I don't deserve such nice, convenient experiences that are usually really hard for people, but since working through a couple trials that require more active effort, I'm just grateful that this has worked so smoothly so far.
  • I'm grateful that I have such a good mentor. I'll be subbing for a friend while she's on maternity leave, and she's been coaching me in her class procedures, and said I can contact her throughout her leave. Her training and confidence in me have done a lot to bolster my fragile confidence.
  • I've had a few opportunities to meet the principal and the other teachers that I'll be working with. They are really likable, and one was even excited to work with me before she'd met me! I'm really blessed to get my first subbing opportunity in such an amazing school.
  • In spite of my fears, I've been so excited and motivated by this chance to be involved in education. During the professional development that I was invited to I could practically feel stars dancing in my eyes at the vision that these teachers presented. This is such a meaningful work to be part of, and I want to learn more. It's definitely shaping my career aspirations already. I haven't even taught a class yet!

I keep switching between wild excitement and paralyzing anticipation. Sometimes I'm afraid that I won't be good enough, but I am so, SO excited to be working in an environment where I can make a difference in the world. I feel a little less overwhelmed compared to earlier this week. I'm so excited to see what I learn and where this opportunity takes me! I'm sure I'll be able to look back and clearly see God's hand in this.