Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Breakthrough...

I had always pursued nursing as a career, but when I took Anatomy and Physiology in school, I quickly remembered that intense science and math are not my strong suits. I'm not horrible, but I don't excel, either. When faced with the immensely difficult requirements of nursing school, with three YOUNG children and no spouse to help out when times grow bleak, I had a deep feeling of dread in my heart. I knew it wasn't my path.

I've been waiting, praying and researching for nearly three years to decide which career pathway to take. I've been out of my mind, crying out to God for answers, fretting daily about this. There were many times I felt I would never "find myself" or my purpose in life, only to waste a hard-earned education.

Not any more!

I feel like the answer has been staring me in the face for years. I love children. I enjoy being around people. I have a knack for instruction. I love learning. I enjoy helping others.

Teaching.

I've thought of it many times, but never really made the committed leap. My mom was a teacher, and an incredible one at that - there was a part of me that looked up to her with a reverential awe, not feeling "up to" that level. Not feeling competent enough or smart enough to direct the education of 30 some-odd kids. Not feeling able to face parents in conferences. Since I've been through so much in the last few years, I have found the strength I needed to face these challenges head on without fear of failure.

I've registered for school at a 4 year university that has a satellite campus in the area so that I can attend without being too far from my boys, and take some courses online as well, as I have been doing this year. Making my own schedule with school has been so freeing, and I am able to work during my peak productive hours.

I am thoroughly looking forward to this next chapter of my life, and to a new goal to conquer! :)

14 comments:

  1. That's great Erin!! Good luck!

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  2. Best of luck to you!

    I have been pondering going back to get my degree, but I don't know how I will find the time. But if you can do it, so can I!

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  3. I'm so proud of you Erin! And that is the perfect job for you!!!! Love it!

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  4. Congrats Erin! I've actually always thought you'd be perfect for that :)

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  5. You go girl! ;) You'll be great!

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  6. Well it is about time that you figure out what everyone else could see right away. you would make a great teacher! what grade levels are you thinking?

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  7. Thanks, you guys! :)

    @frazierbaz - I don't actually "have" the time, I just have to "make" it. Times I'd normally be resting I am doing all kinds of activities. I end up pretty tired most days, but I'm learning to find ways to cope and thrive. :) Yes, YOU CAN! You'll love the feeling of accomplishment, too! :D

    Jessica - you crack me up. I know... it seemed like the obvious choice, but I had a hard time seeing the forest through the trees! I have been thinking 2nd-3rd ish, but I really don't have a specific preference as of yet. I love them all!

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  8. Maybe it is in the genes...

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  9. You could always come help out in my class (2nd) to see if it is the grade level you would prefer!

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  10. I've helped in almost every grade level, probably all, thanks to my Mom. :) I'm better with the littles, usually - it's just a matter of thinking about it for awhile. Thankfully, I have the time. :) The program starts in the summer here, so I will be taking some of the program credits seperately this coming fall and spring. Tons of time to make decisions. Though, I'd love to visit your class and see what you're up to. :)

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  11. YAY Erin! Welcome to the wonderful world of education. It's the HARDEST job (besides being a mother) that I've ever done but like motherhood, it is SO rewarding! If you ever need help with papers, projects, lesson plans, etc. and you need extra help (besides your mom) I'd love to help any way I can! Take care and BEST of luck to you...I know you'll be an EXCELLENT teacher--you already are to your boys! Love you! XOXOXO!!! ~Shelley P.

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  12. You are going to be an AWESOME teacher!

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  13. WTG Erin! Sounds like a natural fit to me!

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  14. That is so wonderful! Congratulations! It's a really great feeling when we reach those breakthroughs and we think to ourselves 'why didn't I realize this before!' :)

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