What is Your Purpose?

This first week back everyone, students & teachers alike, work to get back into the routine of school.  As I reflect on this week I realize this week has been more challenging than any other midyear return to school for my family because of recent events that impacted us.  Despite any challenges that we faced, we have made it through the week.  Not only has this week been challenging, but the past month has been difficult.  For those that are not in the education "business" they don't quite understand the connection teachers have with their students.  For the vast majority of teachers, once they have a student in their class or for an administrator in their school, that person is always their student no matter what their age.

Over the past month, two former students have passed away and another seriously injured.  Another student lost a parent and in addition to those challenges, my family faced the loss of a close relative.  I mention these events to bring us to one question.

What is your purpose?

I firmly believe that education is a calling.  A calling to change lives.  Sure, we have content to teach, but it goes far beyond that.  As any teacher will tell you, they didn't get into teaching for the money.  Though it would be great to be paid a wage worthy of the calling.  Most teachers hold true to their calling, they are here to impact lives.  When students are in need teachers find a way to meet that need.  That could be food, clothes, shelter, a listening ear or comfort in times of sorrow.  It could also be rejoicing in times of gladness, celebrating successes, learning from mistakes and guidance through the pitfalls of life.

For teachers, it isn't just about delivering the content as many people think.  It is about investing in others.  That is what teachers are called to do.  I want to thank those that have invested in so many lives.  You may never know the impact you have on a particular individual.  You may not know how that kind word or seemingly insignificant gesture will impact a student, but don't let that stop you.  It may be the one thing that sticks with a student for a lifetime.

Here is an example for you.  I know an adult in her late fifties that shares about two different teachers that impacted her life.  One positive and one negative.  The negative told her she wasn't good at math destroyed her confidence in that area for many years.  The other took the time to help out a less fortunate child everyday by combing/brushing her hair every morning.  She did this to help the child feel more confident in herself and provide a need for that child.  Though the kindness wasn't shown to her, she witnessed it and it impacts her to this day.

Which one are you?