Strength

I just finished up another night of bible study. Pouring over the words of God, trying to make sense of Faith. It's funny how Beth's principle topics for the prompts? Are exactly what I was thinking as I was going through the day of the lesson. It's nice to know someone's been there. In this side of the reflection pond. Starting out and evaluating themselves once again. It's a comfort, I guess.
I feel refreshed with this perspective though. I'm ready to go for tomorrow- whatever it is that comes my way and hit it full force. In whatever direction. It's not in my hands right now anyway. Particularly with everything with To Write Love. Which I will definitely update later on with information and progress reports. I really can't believe how much I'm learning through it.

Three kids in my class today told me that they didn't take or have their medications. This called for a number of breakdowns and negative self image problems. After coming home today I just tried to reflect- wondering what it is that I can give these kids and the strength that I can exert for them. That's something I'm hoping God will see. I can feel him with me in that classroom. Smiling down on those kids and warming my heart when I'm with them. I just hope it's putting the best foot forward- for them and for God.

I want to take them all and just be there. Be a resource for them when it feels like no one else will. Anchor them in and shelter them wholeheartedly. These kids have stories. Stories of strength and beauty. Of brokenness and edge. Of despair, sadness, sickness and hopelessness. Yet, I love them. I love their struggles. I love the challenges they come to me with- whether it's homework, a kid on the playground, or something at home. I just feel like God put me in that classroom to give them hope. To provide them with that one environment of safety. Of home and reason.
The teacher does the same. They light up when they see her. She is their light house and I love seeing the dynamic. I don't know how I'm going to leave them in 2 weeks. It will break my heart.

I'm emotional tonight, yet I think that's just God pointing in a number of directions. I think it's God telling me to keep working at to write love, at my faith and with these kids. I'm empowered and inspired beyond belief.

I'm compelled to include Jamie and Renee tonight. Jamie's faith and Renee's story remind me again and again the wonders of God. 

Highlight tonight:  according to your faith, it will be done for you.

Hebrews 11:6. Once again.

Your story IS important. 

With hope.