Moving On
It wasn’t exactly unhappiness; other parts of her life were happy. Certainly she was frustrated and unfulfilled. She was brilliant in her subject matter and could teach the dimmest student, brightening a life with new understanding. Maybe that was the problem, she was too good at her job. So she got the most difficult students and the lowest-level classes. Every year. And with retirement age tapping her on the shoulder, she wasn’t sure what to do; so she prayed, often and fervently.
She had a retired teacher friend who tutored and, when he got stuck, would call her. His students started suggesting on their own that they call “Miss M” when a difficult problem presented itself. She could always help and he often told her to at least appear to struggle before answering the question. This man, these students in a small town on the other side of the state, appreciated her.
They had been talking about her behind her back. But this wasn’t the destructive, mean-spirited talk she was used to, this was the kind of talk that changes lives for the better. Was it possible? Would she even consider it? It would mean moving and adjusting to a new kind of life. Did they dare even ask? Yes, said her friend, ask.
She interviewed with the principal halfway between his small town and her large city. He told her about the school and the kids and the opportunities he wanted to give them. He was impressed with her resume and the breadth and depth of her knowledge. He asked her if she would consider coming to their town and their small school of 350 students in grades 9 through 12. And as he left he gave her a contract already signed by the superintendent.
She wasn’t sure, this was a big change. She asked God one last time, “Is this what you want me to do? If it is, please give me a sign.” Her assignment for the fall came out and she knew God had heard her and answered her prayer. If she stayed she would be teaching the low level classes, filled with students who couldn’t begin to understand the material. She would have to deal with an administration obsessed with status rather than learning, parents eager to place blame rather than hold their children accountable, and students without respect for her and unconcerned about their futures.
Thanking God for the clear sign, she chose the path of new life. The superintendent and the principal could hardly believe their luck. The school staff was bending over backwards to welcome her and help her find a place to live. With summer vacation barely started parents were abuzz with excitement and planning to be there for back-to-school night just so they could meet her. After so many years of being bullied and taken for granted, she was going to a place where she would be welcomed, respected, loved. She would be a part of a community of grace.