“I am ENOUGH.”

I think being a middle school teacher you are more than just a subject teacher but perhaps a life coach- always there to help and serve others. As I sit in my classroom carrying on with my busy day I find that my door has opened quite a bit this time of year. Students former and current filter in with the weight of the world on their shoulders. They have all kinds of concerns and struggles and don't we all. They need someone to listen.

We come to people we trust when we have fears. I give my time and attention to hear out their hardships. Sometimes it can be family issues and others its social issues, like breakups. Ultimately, we as people want to be heard. We want to hear that with whatever life throws at us we can be strong. The tough times give us wisdom and strength. We as humans will always have burdens and issues that exist. Life is a crazy roller coaster ride and it can feel fun or terrifying.

Many of these children just need to hear that "THEY ARE ENOUGH." Yes, it is uncomfortable to deal with hard times but it is what makes us raw human beings. The truth is that we feel. It would be hard to know the good times without sad times. Doubt can creep into your mind and fear might want to take over but every person is stronger than they know. You are stronger than you know and that is the truth. Think back now about some of the tough situations you have had this year. You made it or are MAKING IT.

 In the moments I'm listening in my classroom I have my thousand tab teacher mind going. I stop. I process. I give my patience. I know I have lots to do. I give my understanding and I want these students to be reminded that they are enough. I push away all that I need to do and work on and give them my complete attention. I have to because they need me in this moment. 

When I find myself in the same situation and I walk through someone else's open door and I hope they continue to say the same to me. When I have moments I am tired or moments when I feel anxious or worried. I hope that person stops everything they are doing and says "you are strong and you are enough." That simple reassurance and love can be the fuel that sparks the same chain reaction. 

Whatever may be going on in your life. Whatever may be worrying you I hope that you know that life will always challenge you. You will always learn to cope even when you don't want to but you are always going to be enough. If you happen to walk through my open door know that I will be there to drop it all and listen.