I Am Proud
“Pray and thank God for having chosen you to live this life and do this work.”
~ Mother Teresa
(My sister has been an incredible first-grade teacher for over 17 years. After a particularly difficult school day for her, I wrote her a letter. I would like to share this letter today as my message to you as well.)
Dear Teacher,
I’m so proud of you. On days when it feels so very heavy, I am proud of you for walking forward and loving harder. For the millions of decisions you make every day, always asking first, “What is best for our kids?” For the lunch breaks you sacrifice to clean up after a meltdown. For the phone calls, emails, texts, and pleads in the office. I’m proud of you for advocating for your students.
I’m proud of the impact you have made and will make. Hundreds of students’ lives are brighter, more inspired, and more empathetic because you have been their teacher. You’ve never given up on them. You kindle kindness in those little hearts. You listen and love unconditionally. They know it - they can feel it.
What I am most proud of about you is that, on the best breakthrough days and on the hardest heartbreaking days, you always thank God you live this life and do this work. You take pride in what you do because you are so confident the Holy Spirit will create a positive impact through your words, actions, and love. You are the humblest person I’ve ever met, yet you display such incredible pride in our profession. I am encouraged by your example every day.
Thank you. I am proud of you - more than you know. You are loved and valued.
Love, Christina
May the Lord Bless You and Keep You:
Today, may you feel how proud God is of your love and devotion this year.
May you know without doubt that your labor has made a Kingdom impact.
In humility, may you be proud of yourself for the times you said “Yes” when it would have been easier to say “No.”
May you feel a fierce pride for your students, reflecting on their
growth and determination.
May you pray and thank God for having chosen you to live this life and do this work.
(From “Called to the Classroom: Daily Reflections for Educators” by Christina Meline)
