You’re Going To Figure It Out

As we approach the start of a brand-new year, I can’t help but think about the process of setting new goals to accomplish. For some, the start of a new year is an opportunity to tackle new goals and resolutions that have been set. For others, a new year can feel like a time of uncertainty. And while I believe in setting deadlines to accomplish specific and measurable goals, marking calendars for set plans, and having different things in mind that you would like to accomplish in a year, the reality is that life is full of uncertainty.

Sometimes unexpected things happen that can change our lives in wonderful ways and sometimes in painful ones too. But no matter what happens this year, I hope you know that you’re going to figure it out (whatever “it” may happen to be or mean for you). As a Christian, I’m constantly learning (and in recent years) have accepted that God’s already ordered my steps. Even steps that I haven’t always enjoyed or understood. But regardless, I know that I’m going to figure things out and that I don’t have to do it aimlessly or alone because my God knows what’s next for me, what’s best for me, and has already set things in motion. I’m not sure what you’re seeking to accomplish this year, what you’re working on, what you’re praying for, or what your heart’s desires may be, but I pray that you connect and partner with God as you figure things out and that you allow Him to move in your life in the most exciting, encouraging, and intentional ways. Happy New Year and God bless.

A Year Of Being Ghosted

Ghosting: the practice of ending a personal relationship with someone by suddenly and without explanation withdrawing from all communication. I’ve been ghosted by every guy I’ve met within the past two years. About six to be exact. · The first guy pursued me and then got shady whenever I asked him about what he did for a living and where he lived. When he started dodging and avoiding questions, wouldn’t initiate dates, and slowly stopped keeping in touch with me altogether, eventually, all communication ceased. · The second guy was someone I met through a family member. He was super cool, very smart, handsome, and funny, but didn’t want to be in a relationship and acted like he didn’t want to be seen with me publicly. When we had plans to meet for an outing, he didn’t show up, and then texted me about a week later with an apology. We chilled at my place a few times, had a few phone conversations, and exchanged occasional texts, but eventually he stopped responding to me

Teacher Table Talk: When Parents Attack

As an English teacher, a core belief I’ve held close since the beginning of my career has been the importance of relationship building. I believe that if great relationships between teachers, students, and parents are established at the beginning of the school year, everything else will fall into place. Authentically modeling, practicing, and establishing mutually respectful and professional relationships within my classroom has been the bridge for effective communication, solid classroom management, and creating a safe and effective learning environment that fits each of my student’s needs. And though I’ve seen and experienced the benefits of great relationship building, unfortunately, there have been times when some students and parents have not been receptive or interested in my efforts to establish connections that would best serve all parties involved. I’ve also noticed and shared spaces with other educators, school counselors, and administrators who’ve experienced the same. And

How To Respond To A Nasty Email

Technology has made many people bold, rude, and incredibly messy. Often to the point where some may hide behind words they’ve typed instead of verbally communicating a message they want to convey. Such can be the case when it comes to sending emails. Ah, emails. You know what they are. Electronic messages that can be quickly drafted, sent, and misinterpreted (because you can’t always interpret tones or emotions through them). Which is why it’s key to know how to respond to nasty emails if they should ever come your way – especially in the workplace. As a working professional, there have been plenty of times when a coworker or superior sent an email my way that was petty, mad disrespectful, and unprofessional. And before I learned how to properly utilize email etiquette, my first instinct would always be to clap back. I just felt the need to respond and to communicate that I wouldn’t allow anyone, no matter who they were, to disrespect me. And while I haven’t taken things too far

Making Waves