Called to be a Teacher | Previous Challenge Entry

how it works

TITLE: Called to be a Teacher | Previous Challenge Entry
By Holly Timberlake
10/31/06
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The first thing that comes to my mind when you say “teacher” is the traditional image of someone in charge of a classroom. However, my mind quickly rushes through all of the “teachers” in my life. This includes everyone from my mother who taught me basic values about life and character to the last few books I have read.

I think of Jesus and His teachings and how He taught people using basic things like bread and fish to demonstrate profound concepts such as trust. I think back to my fifth grade teacher who thought that a short story about my love for music showed some talent. There was a tenth grade English teacher who pounded into my head that “alot” wasn’t a word. There was a mentor that nurtured me at camp one summer and allowed me to share the heartbreak I was feeling during my parents divorce and later sent me a card of encouragement.

I think of the role I now have as teacher. My daughter attends a preschool at the church I work at and she says when she grows up she wants to be a teacher like me. I’m a receptionist. Somehow she sees me in that role. I have encouraged this type of thinking allowing her to envision teachers in many roles.

I always wanted to be a teacher. The very first occupation I ever considered was that of being a teacher. However, for various reasons, God hasn’t allowed me to be a teacher in the traditional form. I was discouraged for many years due to the fact that I’ve not been able to accomplish that goal. However, I have been a mentor, trainer, guide, houseparent, customer service representative, wife, and a mother. In each of these roles I rolled up my sleeves and taught.

I have only scratched the surface of the plans of God and how he teaches. Through much prayer and consideration I have understood that there is no “human” reason why God puts those he puts in the roles he does. I have concluded though, that we are all teachers. We might not know or feel that way but we all need each others influence to become who we are meant to be.

So I encourage you to embrace the role as teacher wherever you are. From training your dog to running a country, from being a mom to coaching a team, as an executive of a company to a playmate on the playground, as a state governor or a pastor. Who knows how far your efforts will go! Teach away!

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