It was just like every other time, wandering through the shopping centre checking out bargains and on the way for good coffee. Randomly, our 6-year-old declared that he could only see grey stripes out of one eye and his vision was not clear. Thinking that he was kidding around again, we made a snap decision and walked straight into the closest optometrist to get his eyes tested. As an educator, attuned to supporting parents to assess the needs of their children, it was a huge shock to realise that, as dad, I had missed a real need in my own son. Indeed, he had very limited vision in one eye, which he had adapted to, accepted as normal, with testing later showing it was like this for him since birth. We missed it!
It’s Week 9, Term 3. QCS, Canberra Trip, Date Claimers, Subject Choices, Carnivals, Fetes, School Camps, marking, moderation … tick. It’s a blur, with so much stuff getting ticked off the list. Phew! It may also be that some students and staff are getting ticked off…with each other! It’s tricky sometimes, when everyone is a little tired, got lots to get done and can feel a bit bogged down in the grind. It can be easy to say ‘all the students are…’, when in fact they are not. Like an iceberg, the tip may be the students calling for our additional support and care whilst the majority are focused, engaged and learning forward. We can easily lose sight of the bigger picture and be stuck in the moment with limited vision. In these moments, the words of Paul to the Colossians, resonate with encouragement for each of us. God reminds us that His goal is that we may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that we may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that we may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ.
The investment of preparation and planning from this time last year is unfolding. Learners are discovering, growing and learning forward each day. Our challenge is to remain patient, assured that every moment, every conversation, every day matters as we clearly see the small changes and celebrate the growth of individuals in our communities of care. God serves His world through us. We are encouraged to lift our eyes, share the Gospel and look forward with hope.
What’s your 2020 vision?
Blessings as we serve, lead and learn together.
Darren
