One of my favorite ways to start the day is with a moment of silence. I'm blessed that the state of Tennessee requires this, and I'm blessed by administrators who give the full minute every day.
I try to use the time wisely - to put aside all that needs to happen first thing in the morning - attendance, notes, reminders, greeting students - and to focus on having His blessing for the day. I pray for the students who walk the halls at the high school next door. I pray for the students who will sit in the chairs in my room throughout the day. I pray for the students who will sit there in years to come. I pray that He uses me as He needs me to help prepare my students for the lives they face.
It means a lot to me. They never know, but it always makes a difference. It makes my day, well, more. It gives me perspective, patience, and a sense of calm.
I can always tell when I allow the morning cacophony to crash throughout my brain. It's easy to be distracted by the world and its demands. But that time needs to remain focused. It needs to be an intentional training of the brain.
Silence. A time to focus on what I hold to be most important. Those things worth doing should be done well.
I begin the year in silence. Several weeks prior to school starting, I begin sitting and praying for the students who will occupy those seats for the next 200 days. I pray that I follow His lead in providing what the student needs. Whatever it may be -- that I help them on his/her path.
That doesn't mean I will always agree with that path . . . what is important is that He knows what that child needs far more than I do. It requires faith, trust, and a willingness to take turns leading, walking alongside, and following. He knows far more than I do; I am simply an instrument.
There are times throughout a year when a class needs refocusing. Again, the moment of silence . . . the moment of surrender to a greater purpose . . . the moment of letting go helps every single time.
I don't shout it from the mountain tops, though the conversation definitely lifts my mood. It doesn't need to be announced. Most never know how vital that moment is to me every day. After all, my job really shouldn't be focused on me. It should be focused on my students and their needs.
I love this post because you remind me that the moment of silence is purposeful. I don't always take it. I keep doing what I was doing preparing for the day. Now I will be more intentional and take that moment every day to pray for my students. How could I have been so selfish all this time? Thanks for the reminder!
ReplyDeleteAmy, it is very interesting that your state has a moment of silence. I sometimes forget how important it is to reflect in stillness. I can see that your moment of silence propels you to a hopeful start. Being an instrument of peace and reflection while enjoying your moment of silence must be a wonderful model for your students.
ReplyDeleteWow. I didn't realize that Tennessee allows for a moment of silence every day. A time where all faiths can stop, reflect, allow and bless. We need more of this in the world.
ReplyDeleteAgreed, it is a beautiful time where everyone has a chance to reflect and bless regardless of belief. I'm grateful. :)
DeleteWhat a wonderful gift every morning at school to start with a moment of silence! I love how you use it. Your post reminded me that my mom, when she was a teacher, would sit in a different student seat every day and pray for that student. I love this paragraph: "I can always tell when I allow the morning cacophony to crash throughout my brain. It's easy to be distracted by the world and its demands. But that time needs to remain focused. It needs to be an intentional training of the brain." Thank you for a wonderful topic and post!
ReplyDeleteThat is wonderful. We have a moment of silence in South Carolina too. Taking the time to pray over your students is so inspiring. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteWhat a powerful way to start your day! Prayer moves mountains!
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