Tuesday, December 2, 2008

WANTED!

WANTED: Men and women with the wisdom of Solomon, the patience of Job, and the nerves of David before Goliath. Needed to prepare the next generation for productive citizenship in the twenty-first century, often under adverse conditions. Applicants must be willing to fill gaps left by unfit, absent, or working parents; satisfy demands of local bureaucrats and state politicians; impart healthy self esteem; and oh, by the way, teach content!

Hours: 50 to 60 hours per week

Pay: Growing respectable

Reward: The luxury of always knowing that you are doing something significant with your life
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This little tidbit describes where I've been lately, and how I've been spending much of my time.

I wish I could tell you an exciting tale of how I've been accomplishing nothing more than the carefree slacker lifestyle, become a beach bum in a tropical island paradise wiling away the hours every day by socializing with the locals and sipping Pina Colada's with li'l umbrellas hanging out the sides... but alas, no.

Several months ago, I made the decision to change careers (a 22-year career) from the Medicolegal field to that of Education. Much of my time recently has been spent embarking upon that transition process, as well as my return to the university to undergo the necessary classes to complete my Teacher's Certification. Yes, the professional has become the student, and will eventually become the teacher. I plan to teach students in public education. Yes, you heard me right - PUBLIC.

Many have asked me "why" a person who is well established in her career, life, and finances would alter the path she had chosen so long ago. My answer? Simply because I long to influence the lives of the next generation in an impactful way. I hope to encourage and impassion the youth of today to become their own personal best in life. I want to inspire this generation of children and teenagers, empowering them with the necessary tools to foster lasting change for the good of all people. This generation of youth is tomorrow's leaders. It is through this effort, education, that the world's tomorrows shall be altered - hopefully for the better.

That said, much of my time recently has been spent in classes or doing homework, or conducting observations in the school system. It's a lot of hard work, but I'm committed to this decision and I'm actually enjoying the process, despite the stressors of exams approaching in two weeks. I've done well this semester, a perfect 4.0 GPA, though it has been a struggle at times juggling my school agenda, part-time work, and family life. I have a three-week school break coming up in-between semesters shortly, and I'm in desperate need of a respite... a time to relax, refresh, and refuel before my next round.