The Walls Come Down

It is moving day today. Once again, I must change classrooms. Throughout my teaching career I have had to pack up and restart many times. Believe me, the whole moving thing is getting old.

This time is somewhat different. Almost our entire school is moving today as we make a shift to more concentrated grade areas and spaces for our students with challenges. I am moving to a permanent space – one I can finally call home for the remainder of my career. That is exciting and I am looking forward to this new start.

The move is not without some grieving though. Yesterday the tears were flowing. This is crazy I thought and my students wondered what was up with me. I told them there was a story behind my tears. They asked to hear it. Here is what I told them:

Two years ago, I was reassigned to my current school after teaching online for a few years. I was excited to be back in the classroom and create a special learning space for my students. Weeks after learning of my new position, I was diagnosed with cancer. With impending surgery and recovery, I somehow needed to get my classroom set up. Having my classroom just right for my students is extremely important to me and figuring out a way to manage all that was a challenge.

I was blessed with some dear friends and family who rallied behind me and did all the room set up in two days. They helped create a beautiful learning workspace. Many times, in the last two years, as I have looked around my classroom space, I have been reminded of their love and support for me. Their love in action is an incredible gift.

We have been packing up our room for weeks now. Having the walls come down was indeed a sad occasion, but necessary. As my educational assistant says – we will rebuild it. Thanks to her supportive efforts I know we will recreate our learning space in our new location.

So, what is my point dear friends? Simply this – We may never know the impact we are making with simple acts of kindness. Often, even small things we do for others are things that are cherished and valued. We can improve the lives of others for today and beyond if we seek to look for opportunities and need.

While grand efforts are great, don’t diminish the value of even the smallest kind act. Many people can benefit from us sharing our joy with them in both small and big ways.

I pray you will be someone’s wall today – a point of reference where they know they are loved and valued and precious in God’s sight.

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