Beginnings

I don’t like new beginnings. When I was a high school and college student, I felt fine once I settled into the routine of attending school daily. Unfortunately, the days and hours leading up to the start were not pleasant. Perhaps everyone feels the same, but I’m not sure.

When I became a high school teacher, I faced the same challenges. At least a week before school started, I had a dream every night about the first day of school. Predictably, in my dreams, I was totally unprepared, but thankfully, I was never wearing my pajamas. I typically woke up feeling tired in the morning.

As a very amateur interpreter of dreams, I can’t come up with a plausible explanation for those dreams. I was always prepared for the first day of school. At least I thought I was as prepared as I could be without knowing how many of my students would use the time to test my authority in the classroom. I always thought it was essential to begin on a positive note without appearing too lenient. It wasn’t always easy. If I was too friendly, some students took it as a sign they could get away with disruptive behavior. Too many rules and reprimands didn’t work either.

Eventually, I learned that if I was patient and consistent, everything would work out. I also trusted that the Lord was right there with me, and He never fails.

“It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”  

Deuteronomy 31:8 ESV

If you are on the threshold of a new beginning, I am praying for you. May your heart be encouraged by the truth that you are never alone.

God is with you.