The Greatest Story Ever Told

Anytime I sit down to think about my life and what I'm doing with it, a quote from my favourite movie comes to mind.  In the movie, the protagonist is writing to her penpal that she met in a chat room in the old school internet days.  She writes...."Sometimes I wonder about my life. I lead a small life - well, valuable, but small - and sometimes I wonder, do I do it because I like it, or because I haven't been brave? So much of what I see reminds me of something I read in a book, when shouldn't it be the other way around? I don't really want an answer. I just want to send this cosmic question out into the void. So good night, dear void."

I think about that often- is the life I'm living as extraordinary as it could be? Am I making decisions because I feel safe or because I'm scared?  Have a fallen into too much of a routine?

My grade 9s challenged me yesterday on my decision to become a teacher- not because they think I shouldn't have, I hope, but because I had another career in my heart before changing my mind last minute and heading for education.  Why didn't I become a psychologist (probably because I can't spell that word and had to spellcheck it?) (random side note)  I think it was because the unknown scared me.  Because education was safe- I saw teachers teaching every day and knew (somewhat) what the job would entail.

Now that I'm half way through my 30 year teaching career and very much enjoying what I do, I realize more than ever the value behind what I do.  Teaching is a noble profession and while it may be often undervalued and overlooked in society, I know that the little things I can do in a classroom can make a big difference in the life of a child.    So, no, I don't long for that change in career anymore like I had been 5 years ago.  And while becoming a teacher may have been an easy choice for me 20 some years ago, I do believe it is the right one because deep down, I think I'm a nurturer at heart.

Every decision that is made right now in my life, centres on my kids.  My focus is on raising compassionate little munchkins who have a thirst for knowledge and are life-long learners.  I want my kids to know the importance of play and imagination but also to have the desire to solve problems and work hard.  The type of kid who can easily curl up in the corner with a big book but who can also go out and play sports and be active with their friends.  I want my kids to know the importance of the people and relationships in their lives and how to ask for help.  Yes, I have big goals but being a teacher helps me see the huge impact parents and family can have on kids, so I definitely think my goals aren't out of reach.  I look at this as my second chance to do something brave and full of value.

My brother and Jen gave me a unique birthday present: The Greatest Story Ever Told.

A book, but a blank book, fresh for me to write our story.  A tale that will be full of adventure, wonder and beauty and definitely, most certainly filled with love.  Maybe then when I think of Kathleen's quote in You've Got Mail, I will know that "..so much of what I see reminds me of something I read in a book.."  and I will know it is true because it is A Story of Our life.

The beautiful custom made prints of the kids were provided by Inkdot- I love the quality of the print and how they tie in perfectly with my wood sign about family.  Thank you, Inkdot!  Check them out for great options for printing from Instagram too!  Have a great weekend.