Steady as She Grows

Dear Teacher,  

This week I had the privilege of training the educators of the Arizona Conference.  Amidst teacher inservice sessions, I awoke early for a sunrise hike in the Phoenix desert.  The rocky, sandy terrain was much different than that of my Blue Ridge Mountain home.  I took it all in -- The sunrise, the moon still present in the sky, the bird perched atop a cacti, and the Saguaroes, arms stretched against the horizon (see my pic below).

As I looked around, I noticed the variation of Saguaroes.  Some stood tall and straight -- One lone, prickly line against the sky. Others branched out, bending crooked arms toward the sun.

Saguaro cacti, it turns out, typically don't grow their first arm until they reach 50-100 years old and about 10 feet tall.  It's then that they start the growth of limbs.  Cacti arms allow the plant to flourish, better capturing sunlight and providing more space for yielding flowers and fruit growth.  These arms allow them to soak in nutrients, which is crucial in the dry, barren dessert.  But most importantly, as the cactus gets heavier, the arms help distribute weight and maintain balance so it doesn't fall.

And you, Teacher, there in your classroom, are constantly stretching and growing.  As a newbie educator, the temptation may have been to stand tall and strong, alone in your classroom without the need for collaboration.  However, as you mature in your profession, you see the need for growing "arms."  Your educator "arms" stretch wide and broad in order to flourish and foster the growth of your students.  They also stretch toward the Sunlight, soaking in His rays that fill your classroom with hope and happiness.  And, most importantly, your teacher-arms provide the balance you need as things get heavier.  

So, in this new year, I encourage you to reach out and reach high. Reach out to fellow educators for wisdom and strength.  Reach out to your administrators and superintendents for resources and support.  And reach UP.  Seek balance from you place of imbalance. With arms stretched high, may you stay symmetrical and upright against wind and weight.

Stretching with you,
Mindy
Christian Educator & School Counselor