At the beginning of 2020, my plans were to have a one-month summer break as I switched ministries temporarily.
Then the virus. And I think you all can relate to what happened. My plans changed. Instead of one month, my summer extended to four. I can't say I'm complaining!
I've been keeping track of the many things I've done during my elongated stay in The States. I've seen ALL of my siblings, spent extra time with my nieces and nephew, helped my parents do some de-cluttering, did a bit of homeschooling with my younger brother, and the list goes on.
These blessings have come about on their own because I've been around longer. However, I decided to be intentional about some activities that I haven’t been able to do during the school year whether because of time constraints or lack of resources.
When you’re a teacher, personal learning is often restricted to what one has to teach. But I often miss being the student (minus the grueling projects and the pressure of grades). So, this summer, I’m taking extra time to be a student again. And what better subject than God’s Word. I received a Bible-study book for my birthday, the author of which has a video series that accompanies it. I do homework throughout the week, and then listen to a session. Oh how, I have already enjoyed being the student again. Learning more about God through His Word and how to study His Word better is a privilege!
Secondly, I’ve been intentionally working my way through some of the books on my bookshelf. Because I’ve been overseas the last few years, I’ve been relying on digital books mostly. But there’s nothing like finishing a physical book in your hand. There are also a number that have been on my to-read list for a while. Now that I’m home with extra time on my hands, I’m finally able to get to some of those books and hope to finish as many as I can before I have to leave.
Finally, I’ve been intentional in getting outside more. Fresh air is gold, something I’ve missed while living in a busy city. It’s even better when you get to be out in it with dear family. During the busy school year, being active falls pretty low on the list simply because there are more pressing things to get done. It has been such a blessing to stop and go outside to walk for a while, listen to a book or music, and simply enjoy God's beautiful creation.
Though summers have always been about doing things I don't do during the school year, this summer more than any other, I've realized just how important it is to be intentional about spending time profitably. And I hope that future summers will continue to find me being purposeful with my time.
Comments