A Rock In Her Pocket. . .
She’s asleep. I empty her pockets and smile.
Rocks are a treasure she carries for a while.
I launder her clothes and marvel at how she continues to grow.
As this school year draws to a close,
I pause to wonder, “Does my child’s teacher know. . .
The fear this Mother’s held inside as she’s watched her child grow?”
September of 1990 was quick to arrive.
Strangers stood behind those school doors as my first-born child walked inside.
The year progressed. There were many things to remember: a library book, something beginning with “A,” a school bag, a box of juice, and she’s sent on her way.
I pause and silently pray, “Lord, be with this child’s teacher today.”
Patience and insight are needed in excess.
She returns after saying good-bye,
“Will my teacher like my dress?”
This teacher is a hero through many eyes.
She has not despised my daughter’s strong will.
But ever so gently bent it to conform to that necessary rule.
Like a rock in my daughter’s pocket,
Her teacher has become a priceless jewel.
Smile. . . God Has Done Great Things
This poem was written, by Lizzy, on the occasion of our oldest daughter’s entry into kindergarten. This daughter sends her youngest to kindergarten this year. The poem still makes me cry and reminds me of the great things God has done in my life.
“Consider what great things the Lord has done for you.”
1 Samuel 12:24
Every new school year holds blessings and challenges. As retired educators and empty-nest parents, Lizzy and I have seen many first days of school. . . and many blessings and challenges. Our advice, embrace them both. Never fail to recognize the blessings: the great things that God is doing. There is magic in learning. See the sparkle in the students’ eyes as they discover something new. Set aside time to celebrate each and every accomplishment.
Student Is the Proper Word
In writing a series of devotionals to those on the front lines, we will use the word “student” often, speaking both to teachers and parents. For parents, you may primarily be interested in one student, your own (or multiple students if you have more than one child in school). For elementary teachers, you likely have influence over 30 students, and for high school teachers, you may connect with 150 students daily. Regardless, “student” is the proper word, because we must all focus on the growth and learning of students if we want these young people to prosper.
Parents and educators have tremendous influence over student achievement. One way, is in the words that we choose to praise our students. (We’ll look at other influencers throughout the year.) Instead of focusing on how smart they are, let’s focus on how much they have learned or how much effort they put into accomplishing a goal. In doing so, we will develop, in them, a “Growth Mindset.” (We’ll introduce you to Carol Dweck, the pioneer of this concept in September.) Effort is much more necessary for success in life than potential. Successful people must overcome many obstacles, and put in a lot of effort to achieve their goals.
Speak Life
Remember, what you speak into their lives becomes true. Speak words of life. What you tell children, they become. If you say, “You are lazy.” They will be lazy. If you say, “You are a hard worker.” They will put extra effort into all that they do. Choose your words wisely.
Face the challenges together, teacher and parent. Smile and support one another. Acknowledge the anguish, when you see it, on tiny faces. Then, come up with and execute a plan. Perhaps, it is a nightly routine of doing homework at the kitchen table. The struggles will pass and you’ll look back with fondness as you remember your needless fears. This has been true for us.
Joy will greet you if you look for it. Be reminded of this promise in the book of Psalms:
“. . . weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.”
Psalm 30:5
Arise each day knowing that you are strong, stronger than you think. . . that God has given you just what you need for this time and for this place. Smile and enjoy the children, for they are God’s gift to cherish for a moment. Cherish even the small things. . . like a Rock In Her Pocket.
Copyright © 2023 Chuck Locklear
Also, see Finding Wisdom & Brain Development.