Tag Archives: students

What do you want to be when you grow up?

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Encouraged.

“What do you want to be when you grow up?” asked my junior high school counselor, as we pieced together my high school schedule. You see, I was my own kind of Amelia Bedelia, struggling to learn, with no talent whatsoever and fearful of my own shadow. After pondering the direction of my future for a few seconds, I responded, “I’d like to be kindergarten teacher.” With a respectful smile, he replied, “I don’t recommend that for you. You don’t like school and teaching means you would need further education. I don’t see you doing that.” Eager to know his thoughts, I replied, “What do you think I should do?” “Do what your mom does” he said, and that afternoon, I watched carefully as my mom cut and styled her client’s hair. Clueless yet curious, thoughts of, “The apple never falls far from the tree” came to mind. After telling my mom about my conversation with my counselor, she blessed me with words of wisdom, “If this is what you want to do, then I want you to get a job this summer in a salon to make sure it’s right for you…”

In sharing this story, many people are offended by my counselors dispirit. However, to me his recommendation was a truly valuable puzzle piece to my life. Like an angel in disguise, he helped guide me to dig deeper into becoming all that I was created to be. We all have a purpose in life and God gives us exactly what we need in order to accomplish all that we are called to do. We may not always hear what we want to hear, or get what we want when we want it, nevertheless, the direction we take with what we have been given is up to us. For me, it wasn’t that I couldn’t be a teacher; it just wasn’t a good fit at that time. Truthfully, styling hair has been a tremendous gift to me. 

Life doesn’t always do what we want it to do, but it is comforting to know that God’s love remains steadfast for each and every one of us everyday. We don’t need to lose faith when we see others receive answers to their prayers, while we feel like we haven’t yet received our own blessings. We can rest assured knowing that our time is coming, and when it hits the ground, the earth will feel it. My mom recently shared with me this motivational story:

“An elephant and a dog became pregnant at the same time. Three months down the line, the dog gave birth to six puppies. Six months later the dog was pregnant again, and nine months on it gave birth to another dozen puppies. The pattern continued. On the 18th month the dog approached the elephant questioning: “Are you sure that you are pregnant? We became pregnant on the same date. I have given birth three times to a dozen puppies and they are now grown to become big dogs, yet you are still pregnant. What’s going on? The elephant replied: “There is something I want you to understand. What I am carrying is not a puppy but an elephant. I only give birth to one in two years. When my baby hits the ground, the earth feels it. When my baby crosses the road, human beings stop and watch in admiration. What I carry draws attention. What I’m carrying is mighty and great!”

The key to mighty and great in the word of God simply teaches us that God is our Hero. The question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” is an on going question, that continues to grow within us no matter how old we may be. As I look back over the years, I can appreciate God’s intimate love in the details of all things. Our path is designed by God and bound to be glorious if we are willing to follow Him. Everyday is a stepping-stone of grace to use as a tool to move forward in the grand puzzle of life.

Be encouraged and committed as you take bold steps and healthy risks. Remember, without the struggle, it’s difficult to find your strength. While serving others, we will see more clearly the bigger picture. At the same time, recognize the little blessing that come to us daily. “Say your prayers” were the closing words my Dad would speak as he hit the light switch after tucking us into bed every night. Years later, I am still praying. It gives me great pleasure to share the word and love of God with others. As a catechist (teacher of the principles of Christian faith) my prayer for everyone I meet is to come to know and feel the love of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who traded it all in for the Cross; giving His life as a sacrifice to set us free from the spiritual chains of slavery that trap us in a web of confusion, addiction and sin. The Bible is filled with so many treasures and tools. The Word of God is our sword and shield as we all travel or wander like a pilgrim on this journey through life. Here are a few scriptures to ponder:

“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. [Luke 16:10]

Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it. [Hebrews 13:2]

A teacher is not so much responsible for what our students know, but more so for the seeds we plant to help them grow.

Father in the Name of Jesus, by the power and grace of the Holy Spirit, be with us, direct our path, fill us with the riches of Your grace, transform our mind with a healthy balance that is good for our body and soul. Guide us with Your gracious love, that we may press forward to being all that You created us to be. In Your Holy Name we pray… Amen

Sweet blessings always,

Deanna Danielle

Deannadanielle.com

Michael’s hands: My 3rd grade student 2020-2021

National Anthem

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One by one, their steps were quick and their faces were brightly smiling. Their arms were stretched out carrying trays of banana bread, muffins, donuts, brownies, cookies, and cupcakes beautifully decorated with colorful sprinkles, as they entered into the auditorium. They were prepared for service. Kids helping kids, they put on their aprons and were ready to raise money for St. Jude children, to help them fight cancer and other life-threatening diseases.

The rush was on. As the other teachers gathered their students to go to class, we had our first customers; one very generous teacher and her group. Then the silence came and the clock was ticking, uh-oh… I thank God for the gift of prayer. We prayed, and as I shared with them what a wonderful thing they were doing to help others, the sound of pitter patter was in the hall and we were up and running once again. When the younger class that came to purchase sat to enjoy their treats, out of the blue, my students started singing…

Oh, say, can you see, by the dawn’s early light,
What so proudly we hail’d at the twilight’s last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars, thro’ the perilous fight,
O’er the ramparts we watch’d, were so gallantly streaming?
And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof thro’ the night that our flag was still there.
O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?…

This is the beauty of having the privilege to teach. It’s when your students “WOW” you, no money can buy that!

There are times in our lives when we hear a song, a national anthem, and it moves us. As I see our world today and wonder what we will leave behind for our children, I express warm admiration for the words of Mandela in the movie Invictus:

“I couldn’t help noticing the empty offices as I came to work today, and all the packing boxes. Now, of course, if you want to leave, that is your right. And if you feel in your heart that you cannot work with your new government, then it is better that you do leave, right away. But if you are packing up because you fear that your language, or the color of your skin, or who you served previously, disqualifies you from working here now, I am here to tell you, have no such fear. What is verby is verby. What is past is past. We look to the future, now. We need your help. We want your help. If you would like to stay, you will be doing your country a great service. I ask only that you do your jobs to the best of your abilities, and with good hearts. I promise to do the same.”

May God bless our Country and everyone in it always. May God bless our world that there may be peace, happiness and perfect health. May God bless you and me. For we are all a part of God’s great big family, if only we want to be…

Deanna Danielle

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For God so loved the WORLD that He gave His one and only Son, that WHOEVER believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

 

 

The After Party

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It’s been two weeks since our last class. I had promised that after the Easter break we would have a celebration with an egg hunt and treats. As my students entered the classroom today, not one of them forgot that promise. The first thing they all asked was, “Are we going to have an Easter egg hunt?” It’s a good thing I remembered as well.

Along with a treat, all the hidden eggs contained scripture. Cecilia was the first to read her finding: Ephesians 3:14 “May your roots go down deep into the soil of God’s marvelous love.” And this became the topic of our class lesson.

During the lesson, I explained the importance of investing, and how making bank deposits will give us the opportunity to watch our money increase. In the same way, if we invest in the gifts that God has given us, it will serve as a deposit, and a cornerstone that will help us to prepare to be all that God has meant for each of us.

Having them view the story of the Good Samaritan, they were able to see Jesus share a story about a man who was attacked by robbers, and left him dying. Two men saw him lying on the ground, but continued to walk on the opposite side of the road. However, when a Samaritan came upon the man, he immediately took pity on him and bandaged his wounds. He then took the man to an inn and paid the innkeeper to care for him. He said he would reimburse him for any extra expense he may have.

After we celebrated with great joy the resurrection of Jesus on Easter Sunday, we now join  the after party, giving God all the praise and honor. We thank Him for all His marvelous wonders, too numerous to count. May we invest in living our lives like the Good Samaritan, taking care of all that God has given us!

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Drawing by; Madeline – Psalm 96:11-12″ Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all that fills it; let the field exult, and everything in it. Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy.”

 

A Time for Service

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Children enjoy being a part of anything larger than themselves. As a teacher, it is a delight to see their smiles shine brightly when I choose any of them to be my helper, or to lead a group on a special project. They can hardly ever contain their excitement, and they always seem to do their best to meet my expectations.

We have been preparing for our cupcake and lemonade fundraiser to help ECAP. They will put together Thanksgiving food baskets for those in need in our community. It was a pleasure to have their Area Director take the time to come and speak to our class. He spoke of his job, the families who are in need of their assistance, and the importance of those who partner with them, including us!

Watching my class prepare for our fundraiser, listening to their questions for Mr. Brown, along with asking for his business card, has truly impressed me. It always brings me joy to see Christ-like hearts in my students.

I’d like to share two little writings from my class. “Today, Mr. Brown came into our classroom and taught us about his job and how he makes baskets for people who do not have a lot of money, and people who are less fortunate than us. I understand how he helps people, and I love that!!” – Alessia. “Please God, let the people who are less fortunate than us have the most spectacular Thanksgiving. Please let them know that you care for them. Most importantly, let them have hope and faith through the rough times that they go through.” – Cecilia.

Fourth grade is a wonderful time to learn and explore, to grow and have fun. It is also, a time for service. In Matthew 25:35-40, we read, “For I was hungry and you gave Me food, I was thirsty and you gave Me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed Me, I was naked and you clothed Me, I was sick and you visited Me, I was in prison and you came to Me. Then, the righteous will answer Him, saying, Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink?  And when did we see You a stranger, and welcome You, or naked and clothe You?  And when did we see You sick or in prison and visit You? And the King will answer them, Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these, my brothers, you did it to Me.”

Blessings always,

Deanna Danielle

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“Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help.” Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

A Solid Foundation

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God’s word always teaches us about peace, unity, service, and unconditional love. In Philippians 4:8, we read, “Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious … think about these things.” It is truly ‘these things’ that are far more important then titles and possessions.

I am always inspired when I hear one of my students ask, “What does that mean?” This week, the word ‘foundation’ is credited to Madeline. This word brought to my mind three different materials to build with. As I split the class up into groups, I asked them to build me a house.

To one group, I gave cards, the next group, blocks, and the third group, I gave Legos. I have to say, they all did a great job. However, as for the card house, like the big bad wolf, we blew it down. The blocks were put together like a castle, but with just a touch, it could not stand. As for the Legos, they were solid, even when turned upside down. I wanted them to see, clearly, that is what being built on a solid foundation looks like. It can’t be shaken, and even when turned upside down, they do not fall apart. They are locked together!

Jesus spoke these words in Matthew 7:24-25, “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.”

Every week, we start our class with prayer, then we look up Scriptures. I explained, “This is just as you did when you were learning to tie your shoes. You began by finding the laces. Then, you thought about how to put them together and make a bow. As you practiced, something remarkable happened, and by instinct, you learned how to tie your shoes! In the same way, the more time we spend in prayer and God’s word, we will begin to build a solid foundation. Virtues, like truthfulness, justice, charity, patience, and much more, become your natural way of living. You won’t need to think about them as much, because practice has made them a part of who you are.”

As Molly wrote, “Today, I built a house… I learned, if you focus and you build a foundation, your house will stand forever. The same will happen with your heart and home.”

Many Blessings

Deanna Danielle

That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him." 1 Corinthians 2:9

That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9

 


Can’t Touch It!

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As my students entered the classroom, there on everyone’s desk was a beautiful, freshly picked apple. My first words to them were, “Can’t touch it!” As I saw a few hands get very close, I could only imagine how hard this had to be, after a long day at school. I took advantage of the moment, however, and read them the story of Adam and Eve.

I read how God created heaven and earth, then the garden of Eden, where life began. Next, He created a man and a woman, whom He guided, blessed, and gave them everything they needed, and more. God warned them to stay away from a certain tree in the middle of the garden, saying, “You must not eat from it or touch it, or you will die.” The book followed how life was filled with much happiness, until one day when a very great temptation arose. Disobeying God’s warning, Adam and Eve had the desire for more, and ate from the tree, which resulted in the the fall of man.

After reading the story to them, I said, “You may all eat your apples now.” I believe Cecilia spoke for the class, as a look of concern came over her face as she asked quietly, “Is it okay to eat apples now?” You’ve got to love it! Priceless moments like this say they care.

I now asked them why Jesus died on the cross. The responses from most of my students were great on how He died. On the other hand, even though James could not find all the words, he knew the reason why He died, and it had something to do with our sin. Gabriella also got it right when she said, “He died so we can go to heaven!” As we read and meditate on the living word of God in the Bible, we can truly see how it is an invitation to a beautiful way of life. The story of Adam and Eve is not the end, it is just the beginning. God let it be known that He would never leave us, or forsake us, if we call upon Him.

John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” When I think about all that God has done for us, I could not put my words together any better than the singer, Big Daddy Weave, in his song, Overwhelmed.                                 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BiGb14tTaH4

Wishing you all God’s beautiful blessings,

Deanna Danielle

Picture taken by Ben

Picture taken by Ben

Impression

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Our class started with the kids lined up, facing our guests consisting of parents, friends, and another 1st grade class. Paula introduced the Bible, then Mary and Charlotte asked our class some questions about the Bible. Samantha held up the cross, as the class shared that it’s a reminder that they are all loved. Finally, Jack introduced our performing artist.

This week, we had a very special performing artist, Marty Rotella. Marty has a nice list of credentials; singer, songwriter, speaker, producer, master of ceremonies. I have to say, he did a wonderful job sharing God’s awesome love for us. The kids really enjoyed the interaction, the usage of visual props, singing along, answering questions, and, asking lots of questions!

Along with the many inspiring teachings Marty brought along with him, there is one I would like to share. It was his explanation of the Trinity; Father, Son, Holy Spirit. One God. He had the children hold up three fingers, and explained how even though they are separate, they are all part of the same hand. He also explained that if he were to take water in its liquid form and put it in the freezer, it would become ice. Then he asked what would happen if he put the same water on a burning stove top. Charlotte raised her hand and said, “It would get hot!” Marty smiled, and replied, “You’re right, it’s the same water, yet it is in three different forms.

At the end of our class, many of the adults expressed how impressed they were that the kids knew so much. The truth is, the more time we spend with someone, the better we know them. I am sure that the psalmist who wrote Psalm 48:14 had spent some time getting to know our God. It’s the only way he could express something as beautiful as this; “For this God is our God for ever and ever; He will be our guide even to the end.”

An Impression is an effect produced on someone. Teachers are not responsible for what their students know. They’re just responsible for the seeds they plant to help their students grow. As we wind down to one class left, it is my prayer that seeds are planted and a good impression is left with each and every one of my students.

Many blessings,                                                                                                              Deanna