Letter to Self

In January, Bryan had us write letters to ourselves and seal them in an envelope. We were all on a high from Christmas and New Years’ break, and everyone was happy to see each other. We missed the students, and missed working, so it was a perfect time to write an upbeat letter to remind us why we were doing what we were doing (in case we forgot later in the year). We were supposed to save the sealed letter for a “rainy” day when we needed encouragement. I kept mine on my desk so I saw it every single day. Fortunately I never needed it last semester. I would sometimes have a discouraging day, and think, “Oh yea, I should open the letter…” but then I would think through the events of the day and say, “Naaaah, it wasn’t that bad. I’m going to save it for when I’m devastated.” So I’ve just been holding onto the envelope, assuming that it would be useful in the future. I ended up opening it Thursday.


I’ll write a part two later on why I needed to open it, but I felt really comforted after reading it, and I thought I’d share the letter with all my teacher friends out there! You guys are probably still in your honeymoon phase with the kids since the school year just started, but if my memory is correct, that phase will be wearing off preeetty soon. :) And I’m sure you guys are already running on fumes-- it’s so easy to get caught up in the to-do lists and action plans, and get stressed out because the kids aren’t where we want them to be-- both in their academics and their character-- but force yourself to take time to breathe, step back and see the bigger picture, and most importantly enjoy life!

Anyways, although this letter was geared towards me as a teacher, it was still really helpful when I was feeling down the other day, so maybe it can be encouraging to someone else…

“You are loved. No matter what circumstances may be going on around you, never doubt that you are loved by the creator of the universe. He is awesome in his grandeur and ability, yet he knows you intimately. And when you think everything around you is falling apart or that you are just not good enough, remember that you are loved by the very being that is love.

Try to remember that you are not expected to go out and save the entire world—it’s not possible. Rather you are called to serve and love. Take moments to enjoy the immaturity of the teenagers that you teach—treat each one as an individual soul that you get to touch for just these few moments. Enjoy the company of your friends. Show gratitude for them; relish in their quirkiness and compassion—again remembering that your interactions can be imprints on the soul. May every encounter reveal the love of Jesus…”

Good luck! Miss you NC crew!