Wow it’s hard to believe as I sit on my balcony that the year is winding down. Our school is in full test preparation mode with double doses of math and reading several days each week. Even though it still feels like an eternity until the school year comes to an end I am only now beginning to reflect on my first of year teaching in the delta. During my planning period today I was listening to Hillsong’s new CD and reading my Bible, a tradition that is a staple everyday in my classroom.
Thinking back to early August and much of the fall I distinctly remember getting on my knees everyday just asking God to give me the strength and wisdom to get through the day. As time has passed and school has gotten significantly more stable I am in a much better mindset and much of that can be attributed to my roommate – Chris Curran. Although I’ve only known Chris for three quarters of the year he has quickly become like a big brother to me. He was the knowledgeable, stable second year teacher that my first year frazzled teaching persona needed. For this blog I’ve decided to write him a thank you letter for all the help he’s given me throughout the year. More so than any classroom observation, Saturday class or professional development his help has turned me into such a better teacher and he deserves a proper thank you.
Dear Chris,
If I were you I probably would’ve written off this first year roommate from day 1. Even though I buy all the dryer sheets and trash bags I’ve spent countless hours picking your brain in attempts to create a classroom that mimics your own domain. I genuinely appreciate all the words of encouragement you’ve given me and even during some of my toughest days you’ve managed to find that silver lining in my own experience. Your attitude towards school is unlike almost anyone in the program and has really helped me stay positive and treat the school year like a ‘vacation’ as opposed to a prison sentence. Despite your insane cat you’ve been an awesome roommate and have really helped me come out of my delta shell when I could’ve easily done nothing but work and talk with Jenny at night for this first year. I’ll likely never forget your attitude towards a proper work life balance in the beginning of the school year where you peer pressured me into swimming everyday after school when again, I could’ve been doing work. I am excited that next year my trips back home will take me through Nashville to see you and Jen and am significantly more confident in our nation knowing that you’ll be contributing to educational policies.
Your friend,
Bill
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