 |
| Author | Post |
|---|
Darlene
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania USA |
| Posts: | 868 |
| First Name: | Darlene | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | Christian, trusting His love and forgiveness |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Mon Nov 27th, 2006 05:34 pm |
|
Hello CHN Family,
First I want to say that if this is in the wrong category, you may move it. I'm not sure where it belongs.
Lately I have been feeling depressed and discouraged. The search for a teaching job has left me with a sense of defeat. I "feel" as though I will never get hired as a teacher. This thought has left me with a feeling of dispair. What is my place in this world, I wonder? In many ways, I feel such a strong inclination to teach just the way that Truthseeker/Laura feels in wanting another child. I cannot shake loose of this strong desire. I want to have my own classroom and fulfill the desire for which I was educated.
I left my last teaching position in June of 2005, and since then, have regularly applied for various teaching positions, none for which I have been hired. Yet I keep hoping and praying - asking, then waiting, then waiting and asking. Then I wonder if I will ever be able to have the opportunity to teach again. If not, I have no idea what to do. On top of it, the school district that I have applied to substitute in this year has hardly called me. Thus, I feel bored and unfulfilled, often wondering if there isn't something I'm missing. Perhaps I am meant to do something else. But what?
Yesterday, I had a conversation with my husband about work and this dilemma I find myself in. The dilemma, should I take a job that is 35 - 40 miles away, not teaching but in social work? It wouldn't pay nearly as much, but I would be using my degree. Or should I work in the area in which I live. This is something I don't want to do, nor do I even have the slightest desire or inclination to do. Why? Because the only types of jobs in my area (aside from working at the school district) for which I am qualified, are service industry jobs (Target, McDonald's, Home Depot, clothing stores, etc.) and waitressing. The pay is lousy at the first and the demand and expectations high at the latter. My husband thinks that I should be willing to work at whatever job I can get (almost that is), if it is in this area, so that I don't have to worry about driving several miles and spending money on gas, wear and tear on the car, etc. I cannot tell you how upsetting this is to me. I feel to work at such places would not only be admitting that I am a failure, but also resigning to a life of being depressed and unfulfilled. It isn't that I think I am too good or better than those who work at such places. I have worked in that arena in the past. But I went back to college, which was quite a sacrifice (worked and studied, deprived myself of sleep and healthy meals, a social life, life with my family, church going suffered, etc.) just to get my teaching degree. Now just to throw all that away and take a job that I could have gotten previous to my education seems like giving up.
On top of that, I have struggled with jealously and envy toward my close friend with whom I attended college. She has been my friend for over 25 years. We both worked hard and achieved our dream of getting our Degree in Education. She immediately was hired right after graduation. She is still working at that teaching position and going back to get a degree in Reading to become a Reading Specialist. I was hired about eight months later. The job for which I was hired was a nightmare. I replaced a very inept teacher that was forced to leave. The students were angry that I took his place. Every day was torture and emotional stress beyond the ordinary. The students were the epitome of disrespect and irresponsiblity. They cursed at each other and me regularly. I was threatened many times without any support from the administration. The horror stories of that job culminated to a degree that while resembling a nightmare, seemed almost impossible for anyone to believe, even myself now that I look back on that experience. I left that teaching position when the "final straw" drove me to that point. The principal's last observation of my classroom during that year was filled with lies. Of the 14 points that he made, 12 were lies. He refused to back down and I went to the union for support. They were of little help, informing me that the principal was known for tactics like this in the past when he wanted to get rid of a teacher he didn't like. Some teachers went to the principal behind my back and lied about and betrayed me. I tried my best to do the right thing, but I knew if I stayed there, I would more than likely have a nervous breakdown. I left with a noteworthy letter of recommendation from the school's superintendent, who had serious disagreements with the principal.
Rercently when I spoke to my teacher/friend, she started talking about all her goals and plans for the future, getting her Master's in Reading and a docturate in something else, etc. I told her that I feel as though I am in "limbo" not knowing what I will be doing or if I will ever be hired for a teaching position again. When I told my friend about the recent interview I went on, she began assessing my responses. I felt inferior and foolish in comparison to her. After the conversation, I broke down crying. The nature of my relationship with her has changed so much. My failure to secure a job, to reach my educational and professional goals, and my lack of growth as an academic are accentuated every time I speak with, or see her. I am left feeling depressed and self-condemned. Then the cycle of feeling hurt, irritated, unsuccessful, and guilty for feeling all these things sets in. This is basically what I have been struggling with the last several days.
Another facet to this is that I have witnessed so many others that I know being blessed with the jobs they have wanted and desired. A lady at church was fired at her last job and thought she would never find another job in that field. A few weeks ago, she was hired for the same kind of position that she previously held. I know of several others who have asked for prayer that they get hired for a particular job and God has answered their prayers. Even my son, who is currently a self-proclaimed atheist, was hired for a position over the summer. He really likes his job and gets to travel all over the country.
I compare myself to these cases and wonder what it is that I am doing wrong. How have I sinned so grievously that God chooses not to give me the desire of my heart? Does He want me to work at a low paying service position to learn humility? I feel just like that verse (Proverbs I think) that says, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick." I wonder if I will always be stuck in the mud like this and that wondering leads to fear. The fear is that I will never be doing what God has called me to do. I feel so conflicted inside about this whole issue, and this makes me question whether I will ever make the right decision again with regard to my employment.
I consider teaching a serious vocation and calling, not just a job. Yet, for some reason, God has kept me from arriving at this vocation for the past year and four months. I cannot begin to tell you how vigorously I have looked for work. All last year, I put my heart and soul into the substitute teaching position near our home, with the hope of being hired permanently this year. When someone else was hired instead of me, I plunged into dispair for a couple of days. Then I put my mind to the task of applying for as many jobs as I could find. I put so much time and so many hours into searching the newspapers on line, and sending out my applications to numerous school districts, that my husband felt ignored. The end result is that I am still left without a job.
I recently read in one of the posts on our Forum about Abraham's attitude. He hoped against hope that he would be the Father of many nations. Humanly speaking, it was impossible that such a thing could occur. But we know that with God, "all things are possible." So I wonder, is God teaching me to persevere in the face of doubt? I really am not sure how to look at this whole situation, probably because I am swallowed up in my emotions regarding it. Emotions have a way of clouding the real issues. This is why I am pouring out my heart here. Perhaps some of you can give me appropriate, wise counsel.
Enough has been said. Thanks to all of you who have been long-suffering and read to the end of this post. I know it wasn't easy.
Darlene
____________________
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. II Corinthians 13:14
|
|
|
Ruthie
Member
| Joined: | Mon Nov 13th, 2006 |
| Location: | Houston, Texas USA |
| Posts: | 99 |
| First Name: | Ruthie | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | nominal Presbyterian, aetheist, evangelical Christian/Episcopalian, Catholic |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Mon Nov 27th, 2006 10:26 pm |
|
Oh Darlene, such despair! I feel I know so little of your situation that I'm not sure I know how to respond with any practical advice. All I can think of is that you must give the whole situaiton over to God. And I'm sure you've done that, over and over. Pray to Mary, our mother and ask for her help, guidance, and prayers. Try praying a rosary novena. But most of all, give everything to the Lord, then accept whatever happens, even it's no job. Then try to put it all aside, knowing that you have heavenly help working on it all, and be at your best for others - your husband, your family, your friends.
My husband, after his life as a professional pilot was suddenly over at 49 (talk about despair!), went back to school for 5 years to get a B.S. in nursing. He was able to work at it for only 2 years. His health broke down with prostate cancer, diabetes, clinical depression, diabetic peripheral neuropathy (extreme pain). He is not able to work any more and goes through periods of feeling worthless. All that schooling for what appears to be no reason.
But who knows why we follow a certain path? It isn't always what it seems to be. Sometimes, we take a certain path, like going back to school, and it's not the direct result that's important, like working with the newly acquired skills. Maybe it's the people we met on the way or how we affected someone on the way which might be the whole point. Just something to think about.
I will pray for you.
Ruthie
____________________
Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it. (NRSV, Luke 18:17)
|
|
|
David W. Emery
Network Helper
| Joined: | Fri Sep 29th, 2006 |
| Location: | Brownsville, Texas USA |
| Posts: | 2427 |
| First Name: | David | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | Catholic |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Mon Nov 27th, 2006 11:03 pm |
|
Perhaps I am meant to do something else. But what?
Darlene, you mention several times applying to “school districts,” which to me indicates that perhaps you are looking for work primarily in public schools. Have you applied at all with private and parochial schools? This is an area that is often overlooked because it is not as lucrative as the public schools, but from what friends have told me of their experience teaching in such schools it is much better in every other way. You speak of teaching as your vocation — your calling. Prostituting one’s vocation for the sake of money and advancement is in the end not very satisfying.
Another thing I note is your admission of “jealousy and envy” toward friends who have jobs and are doing well. Pride and vainglory have a way of eating away at the heart until charity has no habitat left. More than anything, this extinction comes from comparing oneself to others. You will recall that more than once Christ’s disciples were called to account because they were “discussing which one of them was the greatest.” Jesus recommended that they become as little children and take the last place at a banquet, because the master is really the servant of all.
Remember also that the wellbeing and grandiose plans of your friends can be stricken down in a single day. You do not know what God has spared you. Sometimes it is like the businessman who has just missed his flight. He is upset. But an hour later he learns that the plane has crashed, killing all aboard.
Emotions have a way of clouding the real issues.
Yes, they do. I have to do battle with them frequently as I work through the day’s tasks. The real issue in anyone’s life is the will of God. Most of my sins occur when I allow an emotion to determine my course of action.
I think you know all these things, Darlene, but are allowing your emotions and worldly concerns to disturb your peace. God knows what you need; I’m sure you have told him this repeatedly. Just stop fretting and allow him to do his work. Then you will find the work he intends for you. And as I counseled someone else recently, what God offers you may not be what you had in mind, but it will be the one thing that you need, and you will find your happiness in it. Resist the urge to speak when it is more profitable to listen.
David
|
|
|
stephanpetersgirl
Member
| Joined: | Wed Nov 15th, 2006 |
| Location: | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania USA |
| Posts: | 16 |
| First Name: | | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | Converting to Catholic |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Mon Nov 27th, 2006 11:20 pm |
|
Just a suggestion:
To tide you over you might be able to do some tutoring. I volunteered for an ESL group in my area for a little over a year, and when I told my non-paying students that I needed to quit volunteering and get a job, they found more paying students for me than I can handle! I was really amazed. They didn't want to lose me 
ESL tutors in my area get $20. - 25. an hour tutoring middle and high school students in the evening. (Most of these tutors are only college students - not even a teaching degree let alone experience!) If you live where there is a need like this, you might be able to really help some struggling children and buy a gallon of milk, some laundry soap, and TP while you wait for something more permanent to come up.
Laurie
|
|
|
Darlene
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania USA |
| Posts: | 868 |
| First Name: | Darlene | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | Christian, trusting His love and forgiveness |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 12:18 am |
|
Ruthie wrote: Oh Darlene, such despair! I feel I know so little of your situation that I'm not sure I know how to respond with any practical advice. All I can think of is that you must give the whole situaiton over to God. And I'm sure you've done that, over and over. Pray to Mary, our mother and ask for her help, guidance, and prayers. Try praying a rosary novena. But most of all, give everything to the Lord, then accept whatever happens, even it's no job. Then try to put it all aside, knowing that you have heavenly help working on it all, and be at your best for others - your husband, your family, your friends.
Ruthie, what exactly is a rosary novena? I just finished praying the Holy Rosary with Mother Angelica and Her Sisters. Is that the same thing?
My husband, after his life as a professional pilot was suddenly over at 49 (talk about despair!), went back to school for 5 years to get a B.S. in nursing. He was able to work at it for only 2 years. His health broke down with prostate cancer, diabetes, clinical depression, diabetic peripheral neuropathy (extreme pain). He is not able to work any more and goes through periods of feeling worthless. All that schooling for what appears to be no reason.
I must be thankful for my good health. The Lord has been so good to me in this area. I had clinical depression for many years and was on medication both for the depression and panic attacks. I prayed for some time about this matter because the medication changed my personality and my energy level. I went off of the medication and trusted my situation to Jesus. I have not had a panic attack in almost 5 months. This is not something I would recommend everyone to do, but I knew that the Lord had given me a special measure of faith and grace to believe that I could entrust this matter to him.
But who knows why we follow a certain path? It isn't always what it seems to be. Sometimes, we take a certain path, like going back to school, and it's not the direct result that's important, like working with the newly acquired skills. Maybe it's the people we met on the way or how we affected someone on the way which might be the whole point. Just something to think about.
I will pray for you.
Ruthie
Thank you Ruthie,
Darlene
____________________
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. II Corinthians 13:14
|
|
|
Darlene
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania USA |
| Posts: | 868 |
| First Name: | Darlene | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | Christian, trusting His love and forgiveness |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 12:32 am |
|
David W. Emery wrote: [size=Perhaps I am meant to do something else. But what?
Darlene, you mention several times applying to “school districts,” which to me indicates that perhaps you are looking for work primarily in public schools. Have you applied at all with private and parochial schools? This is an area that is often overlooked because it is not as lucrative as the public schools, but from what friends have told me of their experience teaching in such schools it is much better in every other way. You speak of teaching as your vocation — your calling. Prostituting one’s vocation for the sake of money and advancement is in the end not very satisfying.
Yes David, I have applied at Catholic schools. Even they are difficult to get hired at in the state of Pennsylvania. I don't think that teaching in a public school setting would be prostituting my vocation. I think as Christians, we need to be "light" and "salt" in the worldly arenas. Our lives need to project the life of Christ our Lord no matter what avenue He calls us down. There are, for instance, faithful Christians working in the business world which can be cut-throat and vindictive. Yet these Christains can lead others to Christ by the very witness of the Lord living through them.
Another thing I note is your admission of “jealousy and envy” toward friends who have jobs and are doing well. Pride and vainglory have a way of eating away at the heart until charity has no habitat left. More than anything, this extinction comes from comparing oneself to others. You will recall that more than once Christ’s disciples were called to account because they were “discussing which one of them was the greatest.” Jesus recommended that they become as little children and take the last place at a banquet, because the master is really the servant of all.
I agree with you, David. I have always had a weakness of comparing myself with others. It is a fruitless and vain exercise for it only produces a morbid obsession on one's self.
Remember also that the wellbeing and grandiose plans of your friends can be stricken down in a single day. You do not know what God has spared you. Sometimes it is like the businessman who has just missed his flight. He is upset. But an hour later he learns that the plane has crashed, killing all aboard.
I have thought about this from time to time. I know that teaching can be very stressful and demanding.
Emotions have a way of clouding the real issues.
Yes, they do. I have to do battle with them frequently as I work through the day’s tasks. The real issue in anyone’s life is the will of God. Most of my sins occur when I allow an emotion to determine my course of action.
I think you know all these things, Darlene, but are allowing your emotions and worldly concerns to disturb your peace. God knows what you need; I’m sure you have told him this repeatedly. Just stop fretting and allow him to do his work. Then you will find the work he intends for you. And as I counseled someone else recently, what God offers you may not be what you had in mind, but it will be the one thing that you need, and you will find your happiness in it. Resist the urge to speak when it is more profitable to listen.
I just read that today in one of your posts. And while I wonder what it is that God has in mind for me, I need to be patient and wait in the meantime. This is getting to be veeeerrry difficult for me. What exactly do you mean by resist the urge to speak when it is more profitable to listen? Is there something specific you are trying to tell me, or is it just the obvious?
David]
Thanks for all of your comments, David.
Darlene
____________________
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. II Corinthians 13:14
|
|
|
Darlene
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania USA |
| Posts: | 868 |
| First Name: | Darlene | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | Christian, trusting His love and forgiveness |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 12:36 am |
|
stephanpetersgirl wrote: Just a suggestion:
To tide you over you might be able to do some tutoring. I volunteered for an ESL group in my area for a little over a year, and when I told my non-paying students that I needed to quit volunteering and get a job, they found more paying students for me than I can handle! I was really amazed. They didn't want to lose me
ESL tutors in my area get $20. - 25. an hour tutoring middle and high school students in the evening. (Most of these tutors are only college students - not even a teaching degree let alone experience!) If you live where there is a need like this, you might be able to really help some struggling children and buy a gallon of milk, some laundry soap, and TP while you wait for something more permanent to come up.
Laurie
Laurie,
Where do you live? The economy is not that good in the area of Pennsylvania in which I live. I have looked in the paper for tutoring jobs and they are not that plentiful and not close to my home.
Darlene
____________________
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. II Corinthians 13:14
|
|
|
David W. Emery
Network Helper
| Joined: | Fri Sep 29th, 2006 |
| Location: | Brownsville, Texas USA |
| Posts: | 2427 |
| First Name: | David | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | Catholic |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 01:11 am |
|
I don't think that teaching in a public school setting would be prostituting my vocation.
I was referring to chasing money. I agree with you about light and salt, but it can be difficult to impossible to make a difference, depending on the higher-ups. Regardless, I have known teachers in both the public and private sectors, and those in the private sector are far happier and more fulfilled.
What exactly do you mean by resist the urge to speak when it is more profitable to listen? Is there something specific you are trying to tell me, or is it just the obvious?
Just the obvious. As they say in Spain, “Paciencia y barajar” — very loosely, have patience and stay in the game.
David
|
|
|
Ruthie
Member
| Joined: | Mon Nov 13th, 2006 |
| Location: | Houston, Texas USA |
| Posts: | 99 |
| First Name: | Ruthie | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | nominal Presbyterian, aetheist, evangelical Christian/Episcopalian, Catholic |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 01:26 am |
|
Darlene wrote:
Ruthie, what exactly is a rosary novena?
"Novena" stands for the number 9. You pray the rosary for 9 consecutive days "with a lively hope of having your request granted, and with perfect resignation should it be refused,..." and you "may be assured that Christ will grant some grace or blessing, though in His infinite wisdom and mercy He may refuse the particular favor which you implore."
"Novenas originated in imitation of the Apostles who were gathered together in prayer for 9 days from the time of Our Lord's Ascension to Pentecost Sunday."
These quotes are from my little booklet "Pray the Rosary" from Catholic Book Publishing company. Praying novenas is a very old tradition but I don't know much more about it.
God bless you as you wait for answers.
Ruthie
Last edited on Tue Nov 28th, 2006 01:27 am by Ruthie
____________________
Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it. (NRSV, Luke 18:17)
|
|
|
David W. Emery
Network Helper
| Joined: | Fri Sep 29th, 2006 |
| Location: | Brownsville, Texas USA |
| Posts: | 2427 |
| First Name: | David | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | Catholic |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 01:44 am |
|
Praying novenas is a very old tradition but I don't know much more about it.
The practice is based on the nine days of prayer offered by the disciples in the upper room between the Ascension and Pentecost. At the end of nine days of prayer, the Holy Spirit descended upon them and the Catholic Church was born into the world. In like manner, a novena looks to God’s intervention at the end of the period of prayer, according to its intention.
This does not mean that one is expected to “pray for” things in a selfish manner — far from it. The idea is that God does answer all prayer in the way that is best for all concerned. The disciples had been told to expect the coming of the Holy Spirit, but in reality they did not know quite what to expect. When he came, signs occurred so that they were accused by the bystanders of being drunkards. And so Christians are slandered today, are they not? Like Paul, then, we must learn to be “fools for Christ.” For he who is not willing to do the ridiculous will not experience the miraculous. Isn’t that why we pray?
David
|
|
|
BettyBoopToo
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | Camas/Washougal, Washington USA |
| Posts: | 538 |
| First Name: | Betty | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | Fist Baptist/Calvary Babtist/Secular Confusion/ Roman Catholic |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 01:57 am |
|
Darlene:
I'm sorry for your suffering, I'll pray for you.
I'm sure your aware of my situation. I've always prayed that my heart would not harden, Because of my own difficulties & tragedies.
A good day for me is if I'm able to do a load of laundry and the dishes. I force myself to shower, get dressed, put makeup on, fix my hair. Most days it takes about 4 hours just to get dressed.
I sincerely hope & pray the Lord reveals his plan for you, While your waiting I'll pray you have patience.
Here is a site with several Novena's if your interested. http://www.ewtn.com/Devotionals/prayers/novena.htm
God Bless you
Betty
____________________
Patience
"Whenever anything disagreeable or displeasing happens to you, remember Christ crucified and be silent."
St. John of the Cross
|
|
|
Darlene
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania USA |
| Posts: | 868 |
| First Name: | Darlene | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | Christian, trusting His love and forgiveness |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 02:19 am |
|
Thank you, Betty. I will be sure to keep you in my prayers. How selfish I feel. I have all my faculties and good health.
Darlene
____________________
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. II Corinthians 13:14
|
|
|
JillD
Member
| Joined: | Fri Sep 29th, 2006 |
| Location: | Visalia, California USA |
| Posts: | 961 |
| First Name: | Jill | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | heathen, EvFree, Messianic, LC-MS, Catholic 2007 |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 02:55 am |
|
| Based on the story you told elsewhere of your conversation with your husband and family friend, you could be an apologist or at least a teacher in the Church school or CCD classes or whatever - - - I guess after you join the Church, though, huh?? You clearly have a passion for the Faith!
____________________
"I praise you, for I am wondrously made. Wonderful are our works! My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret." Ps 139
"Guard me, O Lord, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from violent men." Ps 140
|
|
|
stephanpetersgirl
Member
| Joined: | Wed Nov 15th, 2006 |
| Location: | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania USA |
| Posts: | 16 |
| First Name: | | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | Converting to Catholic |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 08:29 am |
|
I live near Pittsburgh. The economy here is not really good, but it's OK - some areas better than others. I also tried to find tutoring in the paper, and I advertised in the paper with no results.
I don't even have a degree yet. I'm just about finished with a BA in English. (I started college at the ripe old age of 34 )
One of my students, a wonderful Korean lady, was a chemist in Korea until her son was born. Then she began to tutor math students in her home (in Korea). She is the person who helped me get started with this new occupation. I have to tell you I was desperate too, and I spent a lot of time in tears because I HAD to find a job, but I really wanted to be there for my kids.
If you live in my area - I'd love to get together.
Laurie
|
|
|
CajunRick
Guest
| Joined: | |
| Location: | |
| Posts: | |
| First Name: | | | Gender: | | | Faith History: | |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 09:52 am |
|
stephanpetersgirl wrote:
If you live in my area - I'd love to get together.
If everyone would fill out the "Location" information in the member profiles, we'd know who lived close to whom!
|
|
|
Darlene
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania USA |
| Posts: | 868 |
| First Name: | Darlene | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | Christian, trusting His love and forgiveness |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 10:07 am |
|
cajunrick wrote: stephanpetersgirl wrote:
If you live in my area - I'd love to get together.
If everyone would fill out the "Location" information in the member profiles, we'd know who lived close to whom!
Rick,
I did try filling out my profile again but with no success. Can you please tell me again what steps I must take? I know, you are probably saying, "Elementary, my dear Watson."
Darlene
____________________
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. II Corinthians 13:14
|
|
|
CajunRick
Guest
| Joined: | |
| Location: | |
| Posts: | |
| First Name: | | | Gender: | | | Faith History: | |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 10:12 am |
|
Darlene wrote: I did try filling out my profile again but with no success. Can you please tell me again what steps I must take? I know, you are probably saying, "Elementary, my dear Watson."
Click on the "My Account" button at the top of the page, then the "Profile" tab, and scroll down and fill in the information you feel comfortable providing.
|
|
|
stephanpetersgirl
Member
| Joined: | Wed Nov 15th, 2006 |
| Location: | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania USA |
| Posts: | 16 |
| First Name: | | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | Converting to Catholic |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 10:15 am |
|
cajunrick wrote:
If everyone would fill out the "Location" information in the member profiles, we'd know who lived close to whom!
OK - I filled out mine. I put in my birthday too - does that mean y'all will send me gifts, candy, and cards 
Laurie
|
|
|
David W. Emery
Network Helper
| Joined: | Fri Sep 29th, 2006 |
| Location: | Brownsville, Texas USA |
| Posts: | 2427 |
| First Name: | David | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | Catholic |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 10:38 am |
|
Does that mean y'all will send me gifts, candy, and cards?
Sure, on your birthday. Did you fill that in, too?
David
|
|
|
JasPax
Member
| Joined: | Wed Nov 22nd, 2006 |
| Location: | North Carolina USA |
| Posts: | 273 |
| First Name: | James | | Gender: | Male | | Faith History: | Episcopal to Catholic |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 12:35 pm |
|
Darlene:
Here is one more suggestion: All honest work is worthwhile. I know you want a teaching position after all your hard work getting a degree, but maybe you should just put that on hold for a while. Why not seek a lower-paying job for a year or two. It will have the big advantage of keeping you busy so you don't have quite as much time to dwell on your disappointment at not finding a job in the school system. This will also give you the opportunity to get good recommendations from supervisors to go with your future applications.
Who knows, you might find that you like a different direction after all. Lots of people discover that teaching is not what they thought it would be, and become much happier in another field. In any case, the school job situation may improve at a later time.
Best Regards,
P.S. I am a retired public school principal, so I have a little experience in this regard.
____________________
James
"Abide in me, and I in you..." John 15:4
"He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him." John 6:56
RSV-2CE
|
|
|
susiedear
Member
| Joined: | Thu Oct 12th, 2006 |
| Location: | Twin Cities, Minnesota USA |
| Posts: | 186 |
| First Name: | Elizabeth | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | Pentecostal / Evangelical / Catholic! |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 03:13 pm |
|
Dear Darlene, there isn't much I can add on top of the warm encouragement you have already received -- the people who fellowship in this forum are so kind. I can say that I know what you are experiencing as I am also an English teacher without a classroom. I came to teaching after 20 years of working in a newspaper as a copy editor; this is my second year of teaching as a substitute. When my spirits are down, I tell myself that going through this valley will cause me to be more grateful when I finally am hired. God is teaching me lessons about faith and perserverance that I wouldn't learn any other way. May God grant you the same blessings as you continue to place your trust, and your future, in him.
Elizabeth
____________________
But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the return you get is sanctification and its end, eternal life. St. Augustine
|
|
|
mrsbmoo
Member
| Joined: | Fri Sep 29th, 2006 |
| Location: | Virginia USA |
| Posts: | 344 |
| First Name: | Becky | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | former Methodist. RCA, Presbyterian, Holiness, Wesleyan... Catholic as of June ... |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 04:22 pm |
|
Darlene,
I am trained as a teacher too. When I finished my first couple years of extra classes after my B.A. , I got married and didn't teach for about 5 years. Then I got a job teaching at the private school where my daughter went. I had to quit that when my first marriage started falling apart because I was supporting 3 kids under 8. I Worked as a janitor with a temp service for almost 2 years before I found another teaching job. I taught at that private school for 2 years before not having my contract renewed by a Headmistrees on a power trip(long ugly story). I then was unemployed for 2 years and went back to college to renew my teaching lisence and get an added certification. I lived on student loans, food stamps, and a little child support. During this time I did teach part-time at another private school. At the end of that time I remarried and was once again a stay at home mom. Now, I teach my 2 middle kids at home(6th and 9th grade) and don't work outside the home. (my youngest is 2 and the oldest goes to Catholic School) I have never worked in a public school system because where I am the hiring is done by who you know. I definitely don't know the right people. My sister got a position as a home-bound tutor with the public schools by first working as a handicapped aide. That might be an option, to work as a lower skilled position in a school so the administrator will get to know you. Then when a position opens up, you will have a good chance. I earned around $15,000 a year teaching in a private school but some pay more. These positions are rarely advertised and you find out about them through word of mouth. I guess the point I am trying to make is don't feel like you are either wasting your degree or somehow being passed over. Be patient! It often takes time for things to fall into place.
Another option is to homeschool kids for other people. I know of somebody in my area who teaches other people's homeschooled kids in her home for $18.50 an hour. Many people end up having to pay a tutor like this for certain subjects they don't feel up to teaching or because they have to w0rk. One middle school aged boy in my daughters' homeschool group is homeschooled at another family's home while his parents work. I plan to pay for a tutor for science and math after this year as they are not my strong suits. Even this year I paid $100 for a 4 session class in Chemistry for my 9th grader.
____________________
Becky
Wife of Michael(called Moo) and stay at home mom to 5 daughters between 13 months and 17
|
|
|
Truthseeker
Member
| Joined: | Wed Oct 4th, 2006 |
| Location: | Costa Mesa, California USA |
| Posts: | 457 |
| First Name: | Laura | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | lapsed and returned CATHOLIC!!!!!! |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Tue Nov 28th, 2006 10:49 pm |
|
Dear Darlene,
I know the confusion you feel about doing so much to follow God and show your love and faith and trust, only to question if He is somehow displeased with you. After all, you are even coming to His church and facing persecution from your loved ones to do so.
In all my crying here, a few of the things I have been told over and over are: Even if we don't realize it, we are seeking "rewards" from God for being faithful. This is hurtful to hear, because we want to give to God out of love and not out of wanting gifts, yet, we have been taught to expect, at least acknowledgment - which really are rewards covered up in 'faith talk". Also, while we are chastized when needed, everything bad is not chastizement. Just as the blind man neither sinned, nor his parents. And, God's ways are not our ways. That is what makes it so very difficult. I have asked all the same questions about my baby/marital issues as you have about your teaching. Why, if I am pleasing god, am I suffering so much? And why, if the health/wealth gospel is untrue, do Protestant Christians seem to be getting all that good stuff that they believe they are supposed to get?
We just have to trust, which is so hard.
Love,
____________________
Lord, please make my will your Will!
|
|
|
BettyBoopToo
Member
| Joined: | Mon Oct 9th, 2006 |
| Location: | Camas/Washougal, Washington USA |
| Posts: | 538 |
| First Name: | Betty | | Gender: | Female | | Faith History: | Fist Baptist/Calvary Babtist/Secular Confusion/ Roman Catholic |
| Status: |
Offline
|
|
Posted: Fri Dec 1st, 2006 12:51 am |
|
Darlene wrote: Thank you, Betty. I will be sure to keep you in my prayers. How selfish I feel. I have all my faculties and good health.
Darlene
Thank You Darlene for your prayers
Please don't feel selfish. Each of us have are own unique crosses to bear. Each to our own size and weight made specifically as are own.
I pray you'll find a job, That can be so stressful and I know how difficult it is when our hopes & dreams disappoint us.
I always thought teacher's were in High demand. Maybe it's a geographical demand.
I hope your home life is doing ok too.
Peace to you & many prayers
Betty
____________________
Patience
"Whenever anything disagreeable or displeasing happens to you, remember Christ crucified and be silent."
St. John of the Cross
|
|
|
Current time is 11:02 pm | |
|
|
|
|
|
