Sometimes...

Homeless

This week I got a new student in my class. I didn't know he would be joining us until that morning. We were in the midst of getting student pictures taken. I am a picky teacher and I like to check all my students' pictures to make sure they look good and have a good smile. While I am amidst all this my new boy arrives and they are trying to get him to smile. He's scared, sad and does not know anyone. I kneel next to him and try to confort him but I am new to him as well. He's just got an odd smile so we do what we can. When we are done I call over a parent to help me so I can go introduce myself to his mom and chat for a bit. 

As she and I are talking this is what she informs me:

"We've been in Wisconsin for 3 days from Indiana. Dad was trying to kill me so we needed to leave. We try to get a space in a shelter to sleep at night and if we can't, we sleep in the van." 

I'm almost stunned with how honest she is right from the beginning but it gives me a good idea of where they are at and what my child needs - some extra love. I put my hand on her shoulder and tell her that she was brave for leaving that and she did what was best. I also tell her to let me know if there is anything I can do to help. She seems y with that and I can tell she just wants what is best for her child. She is doing what she can right now.

At this point my new boy comes over and starts crying holding on to mom. I kneel down at his level, rub his back and just chat with him. He takes my hand and as mom walks away he holds on a bit tighter. Throughout the day he pretty much did not let go of my hand all day, always reaching for it and always finding it there for him. 

It was a busy day because I not only had him at my side learning all of our routines but I also had my other 14 students there continuing to learn our routines and move along with their day needing varied levels of my support at times.  

This boy needs my support and love and I will provide that for him and his family in whichever I can. 

4. Bestie 2

The next friend that I am so thankful for has been in my life for about 8 years. She and I have been through a lot these last 8 years: tailgating, haunted houses and barns, hiking, carving nights, movie nights, cry fests and laugh fests, fights and arguments, weddings, parties, people searches, boys, and so many more memories. This woman is someone I will have as a part of me for the rest of my life and I am so thankful for her. 

My dearest friend, throughout these last 8 years, you have continued to support, talk with, and challenge me. You have made my life better in so many ways and I am not who I am today without you. We have been through some tough times together, but I think that is what makes us even stronger. We can be through fun and easy times, but also the hard and challenging ones and for all those times I am so appreciative. 

I am so happy to be a part of your life and your changes as well. I only hope that I can do the same for you as you do for me. I hope you know that I always support you (even though at times I'm hesitant at first). I will always be someone you can rely on, vent to or to give you support and new ideas of how to get through a problem. I will always be someone that will try to make you laugh. I will be there to help you continue on your journey of life in the many new roads you may travel. 

Although we may not see everyday, I hope you know that you ar always in my thoughts and I am always wishing the best for you. We were meant to meet 8 years ago in the hallway and I am so thankful for you each day. 

I love you so much and always will!