Buzzing with Bugging
Dear Teacher,
Bugs! They're everywhere lately! In fact, with swing in full bloom, it seems I can't escape them! Although I'm eager to hang on the porch with my family, I'm often met with complaints from my daughters about how "they're too many bugs!" I will clear the porch table off for a dinner outside, only to gather it back up mid-meal because my husband is furiously swatting. No matter how often I sweep the porch, the spider webs keep reappearing! These bugs are driving me crazy!
The "buggy season" has been so extreme lately, that my husband recently purchased bug-zapper torch lights. These solar-powered, rather expensive LED flame lamp promised to kill and repel insects. Once installed, I was hopeful! Now could I happily conduct counseling sessions on the patio without being bugged? Could I know relax outside with a cool drink and an insect-free environment? Nope! The reality is that as long as I'm sharing the great outdoors with these creatures, the only true "bug zapper" is patience and tolerance.
And you, Teacher, there in your classroom, have likely been "bugged" all school year long. Maybe it's the student with undiagnosed behaviors that "bugs" all those around him. Maybe it's your co-teacher that "bugs" you with their teaching style (or lack thereof). Quite possibly, it's your administrator that "bugs" you in their (seemingly) inability to return a simple email! Whatever it is, you've endured being "bugged" all year long and are ready to ZAP your irritation.
However, you know better. The reality is that as long as you're sharing your classroom, your school, and your mission with others, the only true "bug zapper" is patience and tolerance. Just like God sent a swarm of locusts to the Egyptians (Leviticus 11:20-23), even bugs can teach valuable lessons.
Swatting right there with you,
Christian Educator & School Counselor