A whole new life...

The last month and a half have certainly been one of the most demanding I've ever experienced. Going from a schedule where I could pretty much pick my working hours while in college, I've had to become used to being constrained to a classroom for at least 8 hours a day. I originally mentally made (what I thought to be...) the liberal commitment of working 50ish hours per week to be a high school math teacher. Well this didn't last long. Before I knew it, I was putting in 60 hours easy. I tell you what, never, never, never will I have only a little respect for schoolteachers. I understand what it takes to do a good job now. You must put a lot into it to get a lot out of it. The hours have settled down a little, but there's still a lot of work to be done...not to mention the Biology class I'm trying to get through. :P
Funny how perspectives change so fast.... only a few years ago I was on the other side of the desk, never giving even the slightest thought to my teachers and their life they led while away from the classroom. It always seemed strange to see my teachers at the grocery store. I guess I thought they just slept in a cot somewhere in the janitor's closet, haha.
Highschoolers are a fickle species. One day they love you and the next one they don't. During the time that they like you, you really do get attached and want to befriend them. Then they get lazy and think that things will be easy just because they like you. Then they do crappy on the test they didn't study for... then they don' t like you. then yo have to convince them that if they just study more and come by for help, they'll do better. Then they believe you and do what you say and the cycle starts all over. - It really is kinda funny.
I'm thankful though. The Lord really has given me a tremendous opportunity with these kids. He is not only allowing me to improve upon what they were receiving before I got there, but I can sense some of the relationships that are building with the students. Unfortunately, because of my age, I feel like I'm a bit limited as to how close I can get with my students. When they feel like they are your 'buddy,' they tend to feel entitled. (...aka.. not a good situation). I need to be praying for them more. Seeking opportunities not only to serve and educate, but even to witness - if not just in word, but also in my daily interaction with them.
I've been asked several times. "Is this something you'd want to do forever?" -....mmmmm....eehhhh... - no. I really don't feel called to teaching high school long term. I really enjoy what I'm doing, but I think it is mostly because I know I can put my all into it and then be done in a couple of months.
Anyways. That's my life as of late. Hope yours has been as interesting as mine :)