Jesusluvsall's Blog

At a time others are busy running about preparing for Christmas, this week is busy for me for a different reason. This week my evening classes finish at the college where I teach English Second Language. Finishing my classes at the college and saying goodbye to my students always makes me a bit reflective.

We may have only been together for ten weeks, but I know their stories and what they have overcome. For example:

One student’s father died in his home country the first week of classes. My student could not travel back for the funeral. He stayed with the class and is finishing strong. I wrote a note on his final test to let him know that I understand it was not easy and that I am proud of him for not giving up on the class.

Another student came to America five years ago. She knew zero English coming here from the refugee camp. Being a Yazidi woman, she only knew oppression in her home country. She will pass the class. I am proud of her for staying with it in the third trimester of her pregnancy.

These are just two examples of the dedication to learning of people who have been through harsh ordeals in life.

So as I am busy this week grading final exams and over thirty final essays, my students are on my mind.

I wake up each morning and spend time doing the most important thing I can do for my students. I pray for them. For my student whose father died, I have prayed for God’s comfort. For my student who is pregnant, I pray for a healthy baby and for God to give her strength in the final days. She is due next week.

Real life continues during the holiday season and real life is where we can be a blessing to others.

Thank you for reading. God Bless.