Happy New Year and Here We Go

We had a blast on New Year's Eve. Steve, Micki, and Stevi came over. Peg and Michael were there, Bob was there and Jim and Margaret. We had a lot of food, plenty of beverages, and a very nice time. I'm sure that the dogs were pests but folks were kind enough to not really complain.

Now, I'm back at school and the circus starts.

We have several students with significant behavioral concerns that need special attention. We've met multiple times for two of them...I just wonder...What's Next?

Here's a rhetorical question: Have you ever wondered why you stress yourself out over things that you just can't change? I'm working with a family right now where the parent feels that it is reasonable and expected to treat the staff here like we are less than human. If I used the language that he uses he would be totally offended and absolutely insulted. Yet, he feels that it is OK to use that kind of threatening language with us.

We met yesterday to talk about how we are going to support each other with this individual. The key here is to address the issue, not own the personal attacks, and stand up for what we feel is the right thing to do for the child. I can feel the stress building by the minute. I don't know why I let this get to me. I can't change this person. I can only stand by my beliefs.

Speaking of beliefs, I am very proud of the way that I was able to assist some of my department mates during a crisis situation yesterday at school. They were ready to quit and I was able to share with them that God stands by us all of the time. We may be tested, but he doesn't abandon us. We just need to be open to his guidance. It's hard to talk about faith in a public school setting. Some people get offended and I have to keep a level of neutrality here. I have to work with so many folks from such varied backgrounds that I can't force my ideas and beliefs on them. I do take opportunities that arise to try to show others that God is important to me and does great things in my life. Sometimes, that's the best way to go about it. That's about it for now. I'm leaving early today to sing at a Vespers service for the deceased mother of our former parish priest. I'll take every opportunity to sing. I love it.