We Can Do It!

This year for Halloween, I woke up Cars, dressed as Rosie the Riveter. I was so excited to show my h.s. students--> and they were thrilled. I couldn't tell if my students were more excited that they knew who I was or that I dressed up for them. (Wow, I am coming to really love these students. I find myself sacrificing so much for them. I am proud when they succeed and saddened when they struggle--)

It is interesting because Rosie’s famous quotation, "We can do it" is more than a Halloween costume to me. I have to remind myself this every morning before the students bombard my classroom. Have you ever felt inadequate? Whether it is because of age, inexperience, or some other insecurity... I would dare say that most of us have. It is a sign of growth and progression; we are pushing ourselves in some way.

I sure have, teaching over 200 high school students at my age. Not to mention, many are enduring things I would never wish on any person.

I am really young and new to this whole thing...no, not just the fact that I can hide in the midst of my students better than camo in a forest…but really. As I was pondering and fasting about how I can be a better person and a young teacher (and not be so dang hard on myself) I came across this scripture during Church…"let no man despise thy youth." I felt God's love embrace me so intensely during that meeting. 

The following weeks, I saw God manifesting to me just how influential I can be... at my young age. Receiving an email from an administrator expressing what I have done with some of “the most difficult kids in the school” is "a miracle." Or seeing my classes’ unbelievable assessment statistics posted up in a department meeting and being recognized for my creative lesson plan ideas. Or in a simple handwritten note from a grateful parent or comment from a student: “Mrs. Garrett, I have never had a teacher care enough about my success in school like you have.” “Mrs. Garrett this is my favorite class!”

I am growing and learning in ways I never have before. I honestly wonder why I was brought here, why I felt inspired to teach…but then there are those moments where I can see it. Moments where I feel God teaching me and pushing me into something more. Moments, where He uses me to reach His children in unexpected and brilliant ways. Right now, these kids need me and I need them.

We may, at times, feel like we are biting off more than we can chew. We may feel like we aren't capable of accomplishing something or maybe we compare ourselves with those who are much more experienced...But we must not let those feelings of inadequacy and fear overcome the power that lies within us. We all have gifts and talents in combinations that no one else has. If we let Him, God will make mighty instruments of us in His work on the face of the Earth. When things get hard, turn to God, our loving Father who loves us beyond comprehension. He will help us make more of ourselves than we can alone.

In my last Relief Society lesson, I shared THIS CLIP that my Grandma sent me last week...the women loved it! I think we all, as women, may need this reminder every once in awhile.

Next time you are feeling inadequate…remind yourself that YOU CAN DO IT!