Our world is certainly messed up. If you are a parent, you have been forced to make some hard decisions this school year. My heart breaks because it seems there is no good decision for anyone. As a leader, my heart hurts for the leaders because they cannot win. My heart breaks for the parents that need to go to work, but are unable because their county says their children must be taught at home. My heart breaks for the teachers, school bus drivers, custodians, and especially disadvantaged families. Not everyone has the advantages of a safe home with support and food. My heart is especially with those who have kids with a diagnosis.
Seven years ago, my son was placed on hospital/homebound because he was so sick he could not attend school. We did not know what was wrong with him. It was a terrifying time. He was diagnosed with gastroparesis (his stomach didn’t work) and we were told he would get better. He did and returned to school in the fall. Unfortunately, six weeks into the school year, he got sick again with additional symptoms, and I was forced into homeschooling. Even though I had previously been a school teacher, I felt desperate and unprepared.
I understand what parents are feeling right now. I understand the fear of the unknown. I understand what it is like to try to figure out what life looks like when the world seems unstable. I was working at the time and had two other children. I understand how hard it is. It is nearly unbearable. So, if you will give me some privilege, I would love to share with you some words of advice.
Allow yourself time to be sad. We all want to fix the situation, but sometimes the situation is just what you must go through. It is ok to be sad. Grieve what is lost, but move toward acceptance.
Release control. Boy, this was a hard one, but it wasn’t until I did this, (after a near breakdown) that things started to improve. Control is an illusion. Believe in the truth of Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Even when the world is swirling, our safety comes in the form of hope.
Find your tribe. This was really hard for me. My family helped, and God always seemed to send me the people I needed to survive, but I wasn’t thriving, and neither was my son. There was a mom from a homeschool group that kept asking me to come to check out their group. I had all the excuses. I felt like I didn’t belong there and I was too old to go to park day, besides we were going to go back to school. Eventually, I gave in and found a world of support that I desperately needed.
Trust in God. This is so easy to say, but so hard to do. When your world is upside down, it is hard to believe that God has you, but He does. You have a choice, you can walk in confidence or in fear. Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” This is when the rubber meets the road. Do you truly believe what you have heard? This is your chance to walk in peace and love and joy. Even in really, really hard times.
James 1:5 “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
Relax. This goes along with release control, but it needs to be said again. We have been trained to believe that school is the most important thing for our children. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to exhibit a Christ-like attitude in all things. Demonstrate love, generosity, and forgiveness. Show empathy. You are teaching, even if you don't know it. When you are surviving, I realize that you are just trying to catch a breath, but remember that you have been teaching your child their whole life. Maybe not in a book sense, but you are very capable. God will give you what you need.
You are not alone in this journey. As the world spins around you, take time to seek the comfort of our Father. He loves you and cares for your concerns. If you need help, ask for it, but I will warn you, don’t be disillusioned when you receive a rejection. It normally happens from those we thought we most could trust. Sometimes, it just takes a little time to find the right people.
This is going to be a wonderful year for you and your child. You can do this!! We are all in this together.
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