Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone
When it comes to most things in life I’m a great Indian but I’m almost never a Chief. It’s just not my nature and I’m ok with that. I love to help and be apart of most groups but I don’t like being in charge. This week was my church’s Vacation Bible School and I taught the 3- year- old class. Many months ago when people began volunteering for various positions I told the director (who happened to be one of my best friends) that I would be happy to help with anything she needed. My only stipulation was that I didn’t want to teach a class or be in-charge of a project. I simply wanted to assist someone else. As the months passed I learned through several conversions with Monica that she still needed preschool teachers. After several reminders that I would be happy to be the assistant in any class I began to feel that maybe I should volunteer to teach a class. I finally told Monica that I was completely unqualified but would be willing to teach the 3- year- old class. I went on to tell her that I had never taught little ones. I was just sure that she would say, “oh no, I have a perfect spot for you to help somewhere else.” I was especially sure of this since her child would be in the class. Surely she wouldn’t want someone as ill prepared as me to teach her child?!?! Well, low and behold I was wrong. Monica said, “Great, I’ll put you down”.
After that I spent weeks fretting over just the right games to play and how to tell the bible stories in ways that they would understand. I also recruited the help of my mother for decorations and age appropriate activities since she taught little ones for many years.
I am happy to report that the week went very well and I enjoyed teaching the little ones a great deal. I’ll admit the being in-charge part (meaning…being responsible for everyone’s well being and planning) still isn’t my favorite but I loved getting to be with the 3-year-olds. They are so spongy. They just absorb everything you say. I was amazed each day that the little ones could tell me the main idea of the bible story we read the day before. This is such a fun age because everything you do is sooo cool! They were so excited with each new craft, song and story. And, at that age they still love to give hugs and kisses. My dear friend Queen Kelley’s little one, Butterfly, gave me several hugs and kisses each night. Moments like that are priceless!
God took me out of my comfort zone and with his help I was able to-do something that seemed overwhelming at first thought. And, like all things God is a part of, I was richly blessed by the experience.
