Take Time

This time of year can be very stressful for principals, teachers, parents and students. With the writing assessment and the preparation for the Westest, we all feel the need to be perfect. We plan our days accordingly, trying to teach everything to everybody. The students are easily distracted, and the teachers are easily frustrated. It is very important that we all take time for ourselves. Take time to relax. We must escape from our worries and most importantly, we must pray.
I find many ways to create my stress-free moments. I love to eat. I love to walk on the treadmill while watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, and believe it or not, I like to write little poems. I would like to share a poem with you. Please realize that I am not a poet, nor do I pretend to be. Writing poetry is a great way to express your thoughts. So I hope you enjoy!

"To teach is to touch a life forever."
That's what some people say.
Please make it a positive touch, a loving touch
Oh Lord, I do pray.

As I greet my students daily,
Each one entering our room.
Please make it a day of happiness,
Never a day of gloom.

Each day is a day of adventure
Full of challenges galore.
Please give me wisdom, courage, and faith
So all of our dreams will soar!

Knowledge is the power.
With effort we will succeed.
Fill our lives with compassion.
With love, meet every need.

I will always count my blessings.
I will always do my best.
I know that even small rewards
Are measures of success.

I know that grades are not the answer.
Neither are standardized scores.
Please help me to stay focused,
To provide my students with so much more.

I am thankful for the journey,
For the opportunities to thrive.
Even on the bad days,
I know that I am alive!

So take a moment to reflect,
On your life and on your day.
Take a moment to relax!
Always take time to pray!

I hope you have a fabulous month!
Dottie Pownall