So many types of grief. So many losses in this world. From the last days of a beloved pet life to the tragic loss of friend or family, there is only one thing guaranteed. We will all pass through times of darkness even when the bluest skies are right outside our door. It’s all part of LIFE.
I’m so grateful for my experiences in the classroom. Losing a student has made me even more thankful for my days spent with the best people in the world. Kids. In my career and as a mom, I’ve had the experience of teaching every single age group. Each age is unique and awe inspiring. Every child left an imprint on my heart that will remain there forever.
I remember the first weeks of school as a new teacher. I’d go home and wonder how on earth I’d ever teach the new students anything at all. Each one came with a set of summer cobwebs, unique and individual. Some fell back into the routine of school easier than others. I would ask myself, “Why ME, Lord? Why THAT child?”
In 22 years of teaching, God never got it wrong. I was given the kids I needed. By the end of the year, I could write a book about each one. By the last day of school, I could have taken the whole class to Hawaii and never had a bad moment. Each year, teaching followed that pattern.
Few teachers have the chance to teach Kinder – 12th. In many different settings, I discovered that kids are kids. My 11th graders struggled with 3rd grade art projects while laughing through it all. My 3rd graders enjoyed writing 6th grade animal reports, done entirely in class. Through it all, I found patience and positivity I didn’t know I possessed. We found community and love in our classroom.
Now, the world has lost a very special someone who chose her battles carefully. Butterfly Gal was strong enough to ask for support and help when she needed it. When she went off on her own for a summer in San Francisco, she was as brave and fearless as a warrior even when shaking in her boots. She did it all her own way.
After a loss, we all rest a bit in darkness, but remember, it’s not a place to stay. During times of despair, forward movement is necessary. Just one foot in front of the other, and soon you’re moving into the unknown.
In a small California town, a candlelight vigil will be held for Butterfly Gal Sunday night at 7. I’ll be there in spirit. She was a light to so many. Now, others will carry the light for her.
Whatever you do today, be vigilant in all aspects of your life. Look for light in sweeet memories and share them. Have a grateful heart for happy times of the past. A little light in the darkness when it seems all is lost.
More tomorrow.