Unfortunately fortunate

Just like most people, I've experienced many emotions during this pandemic.The emotion I often feel is disappointment. School ended early, my summer vacation was cancelled, and time with friends and family has been limited. As I experience each disappointment, I have to remind myself that God's plans are greater than mine.

When I left for Spring Break, I knew I only had a few months left at my school. I packed up most of my classroom and brought it home knowing I wouldn't need a lot when I came back from Spring Break. But during Spring Break, things escalated very quickly around the world.

I knew my summer vacation to Europe was cancelled but I was fearful my move to Thailand would also be cancelled. I was terrified to check my emails each day knowing there was a chance I wouldn't be moving. In April, I got an email.

The Original Plan

At the end of the school year, I was not going to renew my teaching contract. Instead, I would pick up a long term subbing job in my district or a surrounding district until I moved to Thailand in October. In August, I was going to move out of my current house and back home with my parents until I left.

The New Plan

I will no longer be moving in October. Instead, I will be moving the last week of November to attend orientation in Thailand and start teaching the first week of December. When I told my campus administrators about this, they were slightly excited knowing there was a chance I may get to stay on campus a little longer. I spoke with HR and expressed my interest in continuing to teach at my school until I leave. My district leaders are allowing me to teach in the fall and resign at the end of the first semester. Because it is not ideal for me to leave in the middle of the year, I will start the year with a student teacher. I will help mentor and mold the student teacher so he or she will fully be prepared to take over my classroom when it is time for me to leave. This is the best scenario for my students and staff to ensure a smooth transition when I leave. I couldn't think of a better situation!

I'm incredibly thankful to have district and campus leaders that not only support me but encourage me to follow my dreams. It's a bit disappointing that my move to Thailand is delayed but I'm holding onto hope about leaving in November. I'm still moving back with parents in August and I'm excited to spend some quality time with them before I move.

I'm asking that you specifically pray for peace and guidance as I encounter this transitional phase in my life. I catch myself doubting God's plans for my life but I know His plans are greater than mine and this pandemic is allowing me to grow my faith. I know God wants us to depend on Him and seek Him for guidance and each day I'm learning how to do a better job at that.