New year. New grade levels. New friends. New habits. New teachers.
We are sending our most valuable treasures out into the world to be taught and shaped and mentored by teachers who didn't bring them into the world, wash their clothes this weekend, or put the breakfast on the table this morning. Teachers who care about them, but aren't their parents. Teachers who want to see them succeed, but don't have a lifetime of equity built with them. Teachers who can't focus on four children like we do at our house, but have an entire classroom to take care of.
And that's why I take a few minutes today to bless my children on the first day of school, but also the teachers who are entering my children's lives today:
I bless you to see the value in each of your students, the God-given gifts in each one.
I bless you with patience in your heart today, and that it will be expressed in your face and in your voice.
I bless you with joy today, the kind of joy that can laugh at the moments that didn't go your way and exalt in the moments of success.
I bless you with peace in your classroom today, the kind that can be felt when students walk in the door.
I bless you with the ability to make learning a contagious source of wonder.
I bless you with the skills to communicate well with your students, their parents, and your peers.
I bless you with renewed vigor and energy, enough to go home and still have an enjoyable evening with your family.
I bless you with wisdom and creativity to solve the problems that come your way.
I bless you with conversations around school that encourage you and lift up your spirit.
And I bless you with a new-found passion for your job, the job that is shaping the next generation.
Amen.
