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.
32 comments
You are extraordinary in every way!! Your children and you will treasure your words and I truly believe everyone has a miraculous story to tell! Happy weekend gorgeous!!
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful post!! Being a mom is the most imporatnt job we'll ever have!! Those prints are so cute!!
ReplyDeleteGreat post. You are a great mom, and wonderful lady, proud to know you. Also that movie is just bloody fantastic. Sometimes I just like to twirl in bookstores. What a great quote to make you stop and think. I needed that today. Have a great weekend xo.
ReplyDeleteI've known you for how long and I never knew that teaching was your second choice. Do you know that Accounting was my second choice as well. Do you know what my first was?
ReplyDeleteWow, I didn't know that teaching was your second choice. For the record I can't spell that either...I'm not even going to try. Engineering was my second choice too actually. The prints are super cute, and I love that sign you have above them...I might have to get one of those myself :)
ReplyDeleteSince becoming a parent and more so since they started school, I truly believe that teachers have a job nearly as important as parents ourselves. You are shaping and molding these little (+ big) people into smart, compassionate, hard working individuals who will make their mark on the world. I am grateful that so far we have had the best teachers for our girls and I bet the parents of all your students feel the same about you.
ReplyDeleteYou have such a beautiful way of writing. And what a truly unique book. I love the idea behind it, it was such a special gift!
ReplyDeleteShauna
www.lipglossandlace.net
That is so cool. I love those pics too!
ReplyDeleteI love those pictures. I especially love Lucia's. She is such a multi-dimensional kid. I love seeing this sweet side. Beautiful pictures and quote.
ReplyDeleteOh that book is a great idea! An awesome gift! :)
ReplyDeleteAnd I agree, I think that being involved in the lives of others, especially children, is a great way to have purpose and to know you are making a difference in life.
Away From The Blue Blog
Aw, thanks Andrea!
ReplyDeleteI want to say like kinisieology (also can't spell that one) or a body type job.
ReplyDeleteAnd I love having you in my life.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree!
ReplyDeleteThere's a couple people in my life I would love to get the book for!
ReplyDeleteTotally sweet...I agree.
ReplyDeleteThe one of Willis is my fave.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Shauna!
ReplyDeleteAw, thanks Becky!
ReplyDeleteWait- what was your first choice?
ReplyDeleteClose.... Nutrition!
ReplyDeleteWow, intimidating! I have several blank books that intimidate me so much I have moved them out of sight. I used to be such a good journal writer and then I got tired. Where do you begin with the story of your life? Birth? Do you go backward from the present? Do you jump back and forth from past to present? My mother keeps telling me to write my book about mi vida loca and I probably should have started twenty years ago because it is all a blur these days.
ReplyDeleteI love this so much - you were definitely meant to be a teacher. That journal is such a thoughtful gift. Fashion was my third choice, and now I'm not even doing that. Oh well.
ReplyDeleteI just love what you said about teaching so much. What a treasure you are friend. If only more teachers had the same outlook as you and other realized the value of a teacher who does. Teachers are AMAZING people.
ReplyDeleteAccounting...haha! I liked numbers thought it was a good fit. But turns out I hated the other business classes I had to take in order to get to the accounting part, LOL.
ReplyDeleteOne of my favorite movies is Sliding Doors and I periodically think about what would my life be like if I had never___________ (fill in the blank.) Would it be very different from what it is now? Would I have chosen the same university/major/husband? Would I have gotten married at all? Had 3 kids? Lived in the US? In the end, I'm happy with my life so I don't get melancholic about the what ifs but it is fun to think about sometimes, like a filmmaker or writer would...
ReplyDelete~Sheila
Making the Most of Every Day
I am catching up on my reading and was inspired reading this post. First off, I am going to McNally to purchase this book for a grad book. Though the person receiving it may not understand how every choice they make is history in the making. It impacts who they are and who they will become.
ReplyDeleteAll good questions...so many things to think about. At this moment, I have no idea. And yes, I agree with your mom. That's why I'm writing it now, so I can remember when I have forgot :)
ReplyDeleteAw, So very sweet of you.
ReplyDeleteWait, now I want to know your top 2 choices!
ReplyDeleteI hope they have it there! Keep me posted.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely fun to think about but like you, I'm quite happy with where I'm at
ReplyDeleteHave a lovely day!