This last day of school of 2017 gave me cause to think about my first year away from JRT. As a matter of fact, this is my first non-last day since 1987...30 years ago! Praise God that He gave me good health for 29 years (besides a few set-backs) so that I earned 1 & 1/3 years of sick leave. I applied this time to retirement, thus allowing me to retire in 29 years from public school.
1. Spiritual Check: I have grown spiritually in some ways due to road blocks, such as time-squeeze, being eliminated. This gift of more time has allowed me to not be hurried. I can spend quality time with the Lord. I have read the Bible and Christian books. Then, there is this new thing of being a writer. It has been so therapeutic! I am able to channel many thoughts and (hopefully insights) in to my blog. On the flip side, I know I am not where I need to be spiritually. Thankfully, God is willing to not give up on me. One of my biggest battles is wanting to be in control. Today, I realized a glimmer of true love for God that has not been present in my life. Don't get me wrong--I love God! But, there are times I am too ritualistic! I want more of this true love of God. I believe everything else will fall in to place with it.
2. Time: I have felt so squeezed on time for so long. There were many school days that I would have 30 minutes of "me time" just prior to going to bed. Selfishly, I was crying out for more! We do need an adequate amount of "me time" to be mentally healthy. Many people probably have no clue about my schedule, and I like it that way. Believe me, it was full for a long time! It caught up with me when I was about 50 years-old. I put the TIRED in reTIRED. So, much of this year has been a renewal process. A person I admire told me, "You are getting a new life rhythm." This is so true.
3. Schedule: Yes, I have one. But, it is not like a school schedule. I can go to the restroom when I want (need) to go! I can go out to eat--what a treat! I spend time with adults! I do NOT have to drive like a crazy man, although I still often do. I run errands, do house-work, and other daily "items" during the day instead of late in the afternoon or at night. This is one of my favorite parts of retirement.
4. Young people: I have enjoyed being around students for 3 decades! They have kept me young, plus they laugh at my jokes or imitate the Lowe Language. I miss that interaction. However, the Lord guided me to continue to be a Youth Helper at Vidalia First United Methodist Church. I have done this for over 20 of the last 35 years. This is such a blessing and privilege. These young people are so wonderful!
5. Family: There has been more time to spend with family, and I hope there will be even more in the future.
6. Attending events: As a teacher, I often skipped night events because I had to go to bed! This year, I have felt a fulfillment and freedom to attend many events. These include: a VHS & RTCA football game, a VHS & RTCA One-Act Play, VHS Cheerleading Competition, VHS Cross-Country, VHS Tennis, VHS Soccer, and the VHS Basketball game that gave Coach Chunk Reid the lead in all time wins as a GHSA Coach.
7. Health: It has really helped my back to not walk a couple of miles on tile every day. I used to dread going to the gym, but now it is an event! I go 4 or 5 times per week. I also do some walking. I feel good, praise the Lord!
8. Entertainment: I am free to attend events, watch a show that I want to, or chill.
9. Work: Praise God for my retirement check! My only paying-job is with Paul Anderson. I am the college and career facilitator. It has been so interesting learning a new function at PAYH. I have worked there for most of the last 5 years, and it is a wonderful place to be! It is a blessing! If you are looking to contribute to a worthy cause, prayerfully consider PAYH.
10. Something Different: On 2 occasions this year, our church has set up a Prayer Station at the corner of 280 and Church Street. It has been a neat thing. We plan to do more in the future.
11. The Future: I don't know what it holds. I know I am enjoying life and looking forward to God's plans. I am a learner. Each day is an opportunity. My dream is still to be a Contemporary Christian Music Radio DJ! Only God knows what the future holds, and I am glad for that!
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