where words are most meaningful

Something I'm becoming more and more aware of is that everyone has convicting insight, a challenging truth or encouraging words, they just need someone to hear them. Many people don't share the words in their hearts because they second-guess themselves, or what is worse, they second-guess others. This is a dilemma that could go two ways: the extreme of not sharing because we fear judgement, or the other extreme of not taking the time listen.
Part of our problem is that we tend to focus on our own perspective so much, we devalue to true worth in the hearts of others. Well, maybe that's my problem. I confess, when I interrupt stories and conversations, in essence I am giving priority to my thoughts and words, even if it is to ask further questions. Sometimes I just need to trust that it's okay to let their words steer the conversation to the direction of their hearts. That is where words are most meaningful. That is where true depth is found.
However, the first step is to initiate that conversation. That may begin with pleasantries, so my inquisitive nature can still play a part, but it needs to be bridled by respect and genuine openness. The reminder I heard someone tell a group of children applies to this child, "It was not by mistake that God gave us two ears and one mouth." Like I said, everyone has something to share, they just need someone to hear.

shining here

My purpose for creating this blog was for my experiences in life abroad. When I created it, I was headed for my first trip to Mexico for 8 weeks. The next year I picked it up again with my trip to Mexico for 4 weeks, followed by my time in Qatar for 6 weeks and then my semester in Europe. The last time I made updates was for my month-long trip to Mexico again last summer.

However, I've been going through a time when I've been reflecting on why God has purposed for me to be here, now. For those of you who don't know what "here and now" looks like, I'm currently in my first year teaching at a Texas public school. I have a bilingual fourth grade group, whom I absolutely adore. There is no doubt in my mind, that they are a part of God's purpose for my "here and now."

Days like today are just a confirmation of that. At dinner, I shared how I just wish I could teach my students everything! My passion and enthusiasm get a hold of me, and I just want them to know all that I know and more, before they even go to fifth grade.

My fear was that after the state TAKS tests last week, we would have "senioritis" and would be ready for summer with five weeks holding us back. God has answered the prayers of my brothers and sisters, and we are running with a new engine. In fact, it is mostly because of the freedom from the pressure of TAKS that our lessons have gotten far more real-life and exciting. We've discussed everything from higher education, work, wages, cost of living and budgeting, to crucial events in the history of humanity such as the holocaust. These kids are just as enthusiastic about learning as they were at the beginning of the year (when they were begging for homework).

God knows why I'm here, now. Even though I would like to be sent by Him to serve throughout the world, He's helping my find joy in following His lead. Colossians 3:23 "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord."