Open Doors and Hearts

Dear Teacher,  

A Saskatchewan husky loved her doggy daycare so much that she actually took herself there, without humans, on a day that she was supposed to skip it and go to the vet.  Staff at Spot's Place were pretty startled when they looked outside and saw a loose dog running around in the parking lot.  They quickly realized, however, that this was a dog they already knew very well.  

Missy the Husky evidently didn't agree with her scheduled vet appointment and decided she was NOT going to miss a day of daycare if she had any bark in the matter.  Normally attending every Monday through Friday, Missy was so well-established in the pack culture that she even had a boyfriend, Shaggy, with whom she'd attended doggy prom.  But, when they hadn't left the house on time this particular morning, Missy figured out that her routine had been tampered with.  She wouldn't have it!  So after her human let her out that day, she snuck out, digging under the gate and escaping out of the backyard.  

Because they usually biked to daycare in the morning, Missy already knew the route to daycare very well.  Shortly thereafter, she was at the front door of Spot's Place, covered in mud and waiting patiently to be let in.  Employees were shocked, but nonetheless delighted to see her, treating her to extra treats and a spa day to reward her for her tenacity.  Missy is now an internet legend, a true testament to the care and welcome that she always feels at Scott's Place.

And you, Teacher, there in your classroom put daily effort into making your classroom a place of care and welcome.  You decorate your room with cheerful themes, you bring rhythm and routine to the day, and you create opportunities for memories and tradition. And your students are drawn to it!  Rain or shine, sick or well, traumatized or stabilized, they show up, eager to see what you have in store.  And when you see them at your door, you welcome them, one and all, a true testament to care and belonging they always feel at your school where God's in Place.

Thank you,
Mindy
Christian Educator & School Counselor