On the Verge

So many of my friends are getting ready to come back to in-person school. I feel compelled to wrap my primary and middle school teacher friends, in particular, in prayer and cosmic support. I chatted for a moment with our new Ops Director who very sweetly asked how I was doing…I know you’re supposed to say “I’m fine…” but that seems less-than-genuine, so I told him that I’m struggling. He is, too, which is somehow comforting. There is a part of me that would love to see a teacher who is thriving in this virtual environment so I’d have an example, but it is a very small part. I’m afraid I might have to bitch-slap anyone who was TOO comfortable with it all.

Anyway, I learned from this conversation that Primary is the first domino in this elaborate plan to reopen in-person instruction…there are specific requirements for the little people and they require more space. There are a lot of logistics that need to be considered, but my brain went immediately to the adult humans who are girding their collective loins in order to step into extraordinary battle next week. After Daddy retired and started substitute teaching to occupy his time, he commented once that he was comfortable in Kindergarten because it was just like combat. This is in a normal year. These brave men and women are putting themselves and their families on the line in order to love and teach these kids…it is a HUGE leap of faith and so I pray that this leap has terra firma on the other side. I pray for health and cooperation…I pray that folks will take this seriously, and wear their dang masks, and wash their dang hands, and take their dang temperatures, and then be smart about staying home when they are sick.

For a rather intelligent species, we can be pretty stupid sometimes. Don’t let your particular brand of stupid hurt these educational warriors. Be careful. Ask them what they need…they may not even know just yet. I want to bake them cookies and decorate their doors, but I don’t know if that is even permitted. Find out what is on their wish lists…don’t judge if it is wine…or even that brown liquor. Don’t deny them comfort food…and don’t you dare consider them your employees. It is their vocation and their particular gift from the Spirit, and they will leave everything on the floor before they are done. Let’s lift them up and help them navigate this new craziness.

Hoo. I may have some strong feelings about this.

I don’t want to be afraid to answer my calling. These, my friends, are going into the trenches first and I am combating vicarious fear on their behalf. I have some work to do so I can release the fear.

Angels all around them.