I've been enjoying my job which is something I could not have said very much of jobs I've had in the past. I feel truly blessed to be in this position. I don't deny that there are real challenges but I actually feel that I am making a difference in my job.
I am working with very young children from the ages of 3-5 years old and one thing that has struck me in this is how much I am learning myself just by constantly teaching the essentials in my words and actions.
Being human is something really so basic and yet jarringly difficult. The foundations of these things seem to start with the age I work with. I get to teach (by word and action) such things as getting along with others, identifying emotions in oneself and others, knowing yourself, fairness, kindness, how to clean up after yourself, thoughtfulness, etc. Adults, myself included, continually struggle with these essentials. Then there are just what's out in the world that we should know about: seasons, planets, holidays, cultures, animals, numbers, letters and many other permutations of these things! Naturally, being married to a physicist, I am a believer in never stopping learning in all of these areas. :o)
Another thing I'm profoundly blessed by in this job is having an hour break. I have been going to the park across the street and having a "picnic" everyday for a while now at one of the picnic tables. I love this because it doesn't take me all that long to eat (maybe 20 minutes) and then I can use the rest of the time to pray and journal and "marinate" in the Holy Spirit's urgings as well as my own reflections. This time is invaluable. When the weather gets colder I'll probably just stay inside in the office or on occasion drive home (I'm only 8 minutes away) but for now it's rapturously restorative.
Yes, so there are some things in Mankato I've taken a shine to including my work. I feel completely right about it which is something I've had issues with for a long time so it's actually a pivotal praise. However, Chris and I still dearly miss our friends in Minneapolis and long for a church and friendships that could be as much loved and lauded! Please pray for that if you are listening.
Shalom to all you all.
Kimberly
