 Photo By: Kaboompics.com "When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on." ~ Franklin D. Roosevelt Lessons On The Track Track and Field season is in full swing at my school, and we had our competition this week at a beautiful track at the local high school. Despite the rain, the students persevered and did their best to complete all the events to the best of their ability. As I teach third grade, this was their first opportunity to participate in track and field, and the excitement was at an all-time high. I tried my best to offer every tip I could think of and even shared stories from my glory days in elementary school as a very competitive runner. It's hard to believe, but I was an exceptionally fast runner in my day, racking up a pile of first-place red ribbons and always landing a spot on the coveted relay team. One thing I feel I could have prepared them better for, though, is how far and long the 400m race actually is. Especially on the professional track, getting to the finish line seemed next to impossible for many.  Image by pvproductions on Freepik During this race, my colleague and I were terrified to see a student collapse on the track. We ran over as fast as possible to assist and assess the situation. There he was, laying on the track, spread eagle. We were understandably very concerned. Quickly, I realized it was one of my students and asked him what happened and if he was alright. Much to my relief, he smiled and said, "I am just fine. It's just 400m is way too much for me!" Then he said the cutest thing next: "Maybe I will try 500m sometime though!" I was thankful he was okay and couldn't help but smile at his cute comment. I helped him up, got him a much-needed drink, and told him how proud I was that he was willing to attempt something so challenging.  Image by azerbaijan_stockers on Freepik Relating to My Student You know, I can so relate to my student. So many times in life, when the going gets tough, I have wanted to drop out of the race and call it quits. When the finish line is nowhere in sight, or the task is way more than I signed up for, I have wanted for so many reasons to say, like they do on the TV show Shark Tank, "And for those reasons, I'M OUT!" Is this resonating with you as well? If so, I am here for you, my sister or my brother. There are so many things in life that are much harder than we might have ever anticipated. These could include:
The list goes on and on. I don't know your situation. I would never want to minimize what you or anyone is going through, but I do know this: You are a lot stronger than you think.  I know this because chances are this is not your first rodeo with the tough times department, and congratulations—you have lived to tell about it and probably have helped others who are there now as well with what you learned in your time of trial. When hard times come, look at all that you have already come through and know that you are still here. Remind yourself that hard times do not last forever and this too shall pass. Know that you are not alone.
On the contrary, you are in very good company with others who also struggle. In fact, truth be told it is a very large team. In Philippians 4:13, it says: "I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me." When we can't seem to hold on, we need to cling to the ONE who helps us hold on just a little longer. It could be for one more minute, hour, or day, depending on the situation. Also, remember just like the relay team, when we share the load with others, we all win and cross the finish line together. Please don't give up. When you feel like giving up, tie a knot and hold on. Your breakthrough is coming, and the finish line could be much closer than you even realize. Call to Action:
Meet you at the finish line! You got this! Until next time, Dana Please follow me on Facebook at Little Lessons Learned by Dana here. Tags: perserverance, patience, don't give up, one day at a time, problem solvingCopyright: © 2025 littlelessonslearnedbydana (Dana Romualdi)
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I teach second and third graders. For years, I've had our class motto posted on my wall. It's three simple sentences, but they carry a lot of power—not just for kids, but for adults too. Confession time... I'm three years away from retirement, and the struggle is real. My mom used to say about kids, "If we could just bottle that energy, we'd be all set!" Lately, I've been really feeling my age, and the gap between the kids' energy levels and mine seems to widen daily. On the hardest days, I honestly question if I still have what it takes to be with 20 kids day after day. Many times, I have to remind myself to take a break, reflect, and not be so hard on myself when difficult days come. After all, struggles and challenges are universal. It's truly just part of being human. Looking at the class motto, I find encouraging words that I try to instill in my students. Let me now share these words with you and the woman I see in the mirror as well. My goal is to let you know that you are not alone and that you will make it through whatever challenge you may be facing right now. I am special! (Yes you are!)In Psalms 139:14, it talks about us being "fearfully and wonderfully made." There is no one who is, was, or ever will be exactly like you or me. It's quite an amazing fact to ponder when you think about the number of people who have lived on this earth. We are originals, created by God with a wonderful and unique plan and purpose. I recall hearing a sermon years ago that shared how God had your purpose first and then created YOU to fulfill it! That was so inspiring because the speaker explained it was NOT the other way around, like "here is this random person, and what are we going to do with this one?" When the dark days come, remember how much you mean to others and to God. There is no one who could ever take your place, and you are allowed to be a masterpiece and a work in progress all at once. I am smart! (Yes, you are!) Many times in life, I feel overwhelmed and inadequate to tackle what comes my way, especially in my career. Staying frozen in this state does no good. Confusion is stressful. I love this quote and I tell myself often: "You are NOT confused, you are figuring it out." By reframing the words, it puts the power back in my hands. I am growing and learning every day about what to do and not to do. It may take time, but I WILL figure this out. The same is true for you. Give yourself credit and time to get this right, whatever it is you may be going through. Often, life throws us real curveballs with no guidebook. We all need time and patience, but we will get there. I will try my best! (That's all anyone can ask!)My mom used to say, "Do your best and let God do the rest." As believers, we have the true advantage of partnering with Christ in all we do. We try our best, but often we fall short, and that's okay. Truth be told, I come to the end of myself often. I wonder if my best is even good enough many days. In those times, I am reminded that in God's word He promises to never leave us or forsake us, and reassures us that when we are weak, He is strong. Jesus and I make a great team, and when I have done my best but there is still work to be done, I know He will do the heavy lifting in my situation. All I have to do is ask. The same God we read about in the Bible is alive and well today and on our side. Pretty incredible, don't you agree? Call to Action: If you found encouragement in these words, take a moment to reflect on your own journey. Remember, you are fearfully and wonderfully made, with a unique purpose only you can fulfill. When challenges arise, take a moment to breathe, reflect, and remind yourself that you are not alone. Share your thoughts, struggles, and victories with someone you trust, and don't hesitate to reach out for support when you need it. Let's continue to uplift and inspire each other. Feel free to leave a comment below sharing how you navigate tough times or what keeps you motivated. Together, we can create a community of strength and resilience. Until next time, Dana Please follow me on Facebook at Little Lessons Learned by Dana here. Tags: growth mindset, you are special, you are smart, problem solving, encouragement, class motto, classroom managementCopyright: © 2025 littlelessonslearnedbydana (Dana Romualdi)
  Photo by Leeloo The First at Pexels To say that life can be a rollercoaster at times would be an understatement. Life can take us on incredible highs and exciting twists and turns. Other times, we have to close our eyes, hold on tight, and just weather the storm. Learning to navigate life's challenging ups and downs can be very difficult, but we can approach our struggles with confidence, armed with a toolbox of strategies that will help us stay on top. Let me elaborate on some precious truths and helpful skills I have acquired over the years. By practicing these strategies, you will be modeling what overcomers do. Let me introduce you to The Overcomer Way. Take one day at a time Photo by Bich Tran at Pexels There is a reason why it says in Matthew 6:25, "Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will take care of itself." We have TODAY, and today is what we need to focus on. When we spend time worrying about the future, we rob ourselves of the joy of TODAY. We are not living with intention in the present moment but are lost in the perceived issues of the future. This is not the overcomer way. Worry will not add one moment to your life, and much of what we worry about often never transpires. Think about that. We get all worked up for nothing. Tomorrow is not promised, so let's make the most of today and find something in each day to celebrate. Don't sweat the small stuff Photo by Gustavo Fring at Pexels I love my students dearly, but I have to laugh at what they get all worked up about sometimes. I realize they are only 8 and 9 years old (I teach second and third grade), but come on, people! They still need to know that the world will not end if someone cuts in line, doesn't want to play with them for one recess, or takes the last sucker of the color they wanted. Oh my! Sadly, we can follow their lead as adults sometimes. Someone cuts us off in traffic, empties the coffee pot at work without refilling it, or jams the photocopier. Relax. BREATHE. This too shall pass. To be an overcomer this year, you must keep perspective. Most of this stuff does. not. matter. Don't let these little things throw you into a frenzy. That is not the Overcomer way. Learn to be flexible and go with the flow. You will be so much better for it, plus a much more likable person as well. Keep your sense of humour Photo by BĀBI on Unsplash Never underestimate the power of a great laugh to break the tension and turn the worst situation around. When my son Tyler was a little boy, he would often say, "Let's laugh about it," as he broke out into spontaneous giggles whenever things got too stressful at home. He was truly onto something there. Laughter lightens up the mood and can make the most stressful situations bearable. I am not making light of serious and upsetting issues, but suggesting that certain trials could use a touch of humor to keep us moving forward. Have a growth mindset Photo by Kseniia Lopyreva at Pexels Please know that change takes time. If you are working on issues, problem-solving, or learning new things, understand that things don't happen overnight and that you will get there on your timeline, not someone else's. Be your own cheerleader. Don't compare yourself to others. Tell yourself that you have not succeeded YET, but you will get there. I have made a recommitment to taking better care of my body in all aspects, and one way is through regular exercise. I have been taking fitness classes, and some of them are more challenging than others. I am trying my best, but guess who is last to finish each series of exercises EVERY time? You guessed it, ME! Shocking I know. Guess what though? I honestly don't care. I am only in competition with myself and am just working on doing the best I can each time I go. I have never taken these fitness classes before. Even taking the class and actually finishing all the activities led by the trainer is something I NEVER thought I could do. I am getting better every week and more confident. The trainer even said so! In my books I consider that a HUGE win. Find your people Photo by fauxels at Pexels There is something special about finding like-minded individuals who just get it and get you. The main reason they understand you is because they are in the same boat. They are walking through similar circumstances with the same goals, and they are who you need in your corner. In your ups and downs, trials and victories, they will be your people—the ones who will dry your tears and cheer you on. We were not meant to do life alone; we need each other. Find those fine folk and hold them close always. Partner with Christ Photo by Alex P at Pexels True overcomers need Christ as part of their problem-solving team. I am a big fan of Mandisa and was terribly sad to hear of her recent passing at the young age of 47. I followed her closely on American Idol and loved how she boldly shared her faith and gave God the glory for where she was in her professional life. Her song "Overcomer" is one of my absolute favorites. Mandisa was not a stranger to adversity. She battled depression, thoughts of suicide, and a crippling addiction to food. God rescued her and put her on the path to victory, so when she sang the song "Overcomer," she felt every word because she lived it. In her song she says: Whatever it is you may be going through I know He's not gonna let it get the best of you You're an overcomer Stay in the fight 'til the final round You're not going under 'Cause God is holding you right now You might be down for a moment Feeling like it's hopeless That's when He reminds you That you're an overcomer You're an overcomer Thank you, Mandisa. I couldn't have said it better myself! I trust that you can use these strategies to move from being overwhelmed to living ... THE OVERCOMER WAY! Until next time, Dana Philippians: 4:13 ~ I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me. Little Lesson Learned: Life was never meant to be an overwhelming challenge. Know that you can be an OVERCOMER! Tags: life strategies, winning ways, growth mindset, personal growth, life skillsCopyright: © 2025 littlelessonslearnedbydana (Dana Romualdi)
 Photo by Ketut Subiyanto at Pexels "Working for the Lord doesn't pay much on earth, but the retirement plan is out of this world." Author Unknown Full-time jobs and careers come in all shapes and sizes. There are homemakers, doctors, full-time students, government workers, teachers, wait staff, doctors, nurses, pastors, custodians, and construction workers just to name a few. I could literally be here all day naming careers, and if I did not name yours, please know that I see you. I validate you. I respect so much what you do day after day, after day. It truly takes all kinds of people to make this world go around and we all truly need each other. There are so many careers that I know I would not be good at and simply could. not. do. The point I am trying to make is no matter what we do on the daily, often it can leave any and all of us exhausted, overwhelmed and feeling unappreciated at times. Life can be tough and we can question if we are making any difference at all in our corner of the world. If you never felt this way about your job, congratulations. I am so very happy for you. If you are like me though, and the struggle is real, you are my people. Sometimes we just need to know that we matter and our work is valued. I am a teacher. An interesting thing happened in my classroom these past weeks. For whatever reason, there has been an unusual amount of notes, pictures and gifts coming my way from my sweet students. My display cupboard is getting quite full, barely able to display them all. (What is going on here?) To top it off a little guy walked in this week with a mug for me that said "Teacher of the Year." He was beaming. I told him I will certainly do my best to try to live up to that title and how much his thoughtful gift meant to me. It was very encouraging for me, because so many times unbeknownst to him, as an elementary teacher I feel so inadequate. My tasks are many and I can get easily discouraged. This little parade of loving gestures really brought my spirits up, and meant more than my students could fully understand. You see, the teaching profession has become increasingly difficult over the years. This is my 20th year and so much has changed from when I first started. Kids are coming in with more complicated issues and diverse needs. It has left those of us in education feeling like we are not doing enough, or we just can't keep up. I know the feeling of being overwhelmed at the workplace is NOT unique to education. I am sure many of you can relate. If you are feeling like this, here are some things you need to hear. You matter You have been uniquely placed where you are in a circle of people that others do not have. Without you, your workplace would be very different and missing something that only you can bring. Even if your work is routine, or mundane, you have the power to put your own unique flair on it. I heard of a toll booth worker who danced his whole shift away as he took peoples' toll fees. He said it feels like a personal dance party every day and kept him in shape too. He explained, "Some might see this toll booth like a coffin, but not me. It is my personal dance floor!" Wow! With an attitude like that he will surely go far. Sometimes appreciation comes later Sometimes you get validation right away, sometimes it takes time and sometimes unfortunately you never get the appreciation you are seeking. Please know that even if you do not hear words of gratitude, it does not mean that you are not making a difference. Sometimes even years later you will get the thanks you deserve. I recall a student of mine when I just started my career, who would tell me how much she hated me every day. I had replaced her beloved teacher who was on maternity leave and she resented me big time. She would tell me I was a terrible teacher and how much she wanted her original teacher back every day. Ouch! Years later I ran into her and did not even recognize her. To make a long story short, she knew me and quickly apologized for how unkind she had been to me and stated that I had been a good teacher and she had always felt bad about how mean she had been to me. I did not expect her apology, or compliments and what she said really meant something to me even after all those years. You can encourage yourself Photo by Vlada Karpovich at Pexels What I have found when times get tough at work and I feel that I am behind and falling short of what I would like to be is to do this little routine. I give myself a pep talk and remind myself that I am doing the best I can, in less than ideal circumstances. I tell myself that I am here in this job, in this season for a reason. God has placed me here and I don't want to let Him down. I reflect on all the good and positives my job brings and focus on the group of people I am with each day knowing for me they are the ones that I can impact the most. For me it is little and big people otherwise known as students and colleagues. I know that God is my full-time teaching partner so I will be just fine in the end. Any work can be God's work Photo by Gustavo Fring at Pexels You do not have to be a pastor or on the mission field to do the Lord's work. In fact some of the best work we do for the Lord is in the little unseen tasks and gestures we do at our jobs that go unnoticed. Any job can be a ministry and we can do this work for the Lord to make this world a better place. Moms of littles especially, you are doing some of the most important work out there. Please know that! Be encouraged and know that when our jobs get hard we can find comfort in knowing that God has us there for some reason and with His strength we can make our corner of the world a little brighter as we do our jobs for Him. Until next time, Dana Colossians 3: 22- 23 (NIV) Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Little Lesson Learned: Any job is meaningful and can impact others when we dedicate it to God.  Photo by Little Lessons Learned by Dana Tags: careers, appreciation, discouragement, jobs, working for the LordCopyright: © 2024 littlelessonslearnedbydana (Dana Romualdi)
 Photo by Little Lessons Learned by Dana "Her absence is like the sky, spread over everything." ~ C.S. Lewis I have been really missing Mom BIG TIME as the days quickly approach to the second anniversary of her passing. To think it has already been almost two years that this beautiful soul left us here on earth is hard to comprehend sometimes. Although she is not physically with me, she is truly with me every day. I feel her in so many ways throughout my days. It is so encouraging and comforting. I am my mother's daughter in so many ways and I am extremely proud of that. Her pictures are prominently displayed in my home and classroom and I love to share the timeless life lessons she taught me whenever I can. Mom had so much wisdom and she took every chance she could to impart the powerful lessons she had learned along the way to anyone who would listen. I am so happy to share some of my favourites with you. "Don't lose the victory." Photo by Andrea Piacquadio at Pexels Mom would always say when tough times come, don't let those circumstances rob your joy, or pull you under. With Jesus at our side we are always on the winning team. Mom was no stranger to adversity. She struggled with clinical depression several times in her life. At times, she definitely was pulled under by this dark disease, and keeping the victory seemed impossible for her. We never stopped praying for her and MANY times she had beautiful times of recovery and redemption. For her last bout of depression, we were not so fortunate. She did not receive her victory of a healing on earth, but we know Mom is living her best, victorious life in Heaven and we do find great comfort in that. "Keep a rainbow in your heart." Photo by Ben Mack at Pexels As we would navigate our hardest days, Mom would encourage us to keep joy tucked in our hearts, despite the personal storms we might be experiencing. This would keep us moving ahead and pointed in the right direction every time. What I always loved about this expression, is that it emphasized that despite what was happening around us that we could not control, we could control what was happening in us which was our reaction to circumstances. This is where the power lies. Many times I experienced joy in chaos and the peace that passes understanding that the Bible speaks of when I chose to keep that optimistic rainbow shining brightly in my heart. "There's better days ahead." Mom would remind us that tough times don't last, but tough people do. I want to remind you of that as well. It is important to reflect on the past when the hard times come. You have come through so much already and you will come through this too. This too shall pass, even when at the time it feels that this struggle, challenge or stage will NEVER end. Be assured this is not how your story ends. It is just a bump in the road. Hang in there my friend. "Be a Can-do woman." Mom would encourage us to get I can't out of our vocabulary. I strongly advise you to do the same. Let's start to change our response and dialogue together to the challenges in life. Repeat after me: I can do this! I can overcome this! I will come through this better and stronger! I can and will use this trial to be a blessing to others in time when I am ready.  Photo by Little Lessons Learned by Dana This picture above was the last picture taken of Mom and I together before she passed away. She was still struggling with depression, yet trying to implement and exemplify the life lessons she had imparted to us. I am who I am because of her. I am forever grateful for all that she taught me and will NEVER forget how incredibly special she was. She had so much great advice to share and I trust that these few examples have resonated with you and you can tuck them in your heart today! Until next time, Dana
Tags: grief, losing a mother, life lessons, things mom taught me, legacy, remember loved onesCopyright: © 2024 littlelessonslearnedbydana (Dana Romualdi)
 I just got back from the beautiful Bruce Peninsula. We were up at my brother’s gorgeous cottage, nestled right by the water. It was so delightful to wake up to the sounds of nature and soak up all the peace and serenity this incredible property offered. It truly filled my soul. There are lots of attractions to take in in that area. We had enjoyed The Grotto, The Halfway Log Dump and the Tobermory boat tour last year, so we were on a quest to see what new adventures this area had to offer. When the suggestion of exploring some local caves came up, I was quite intrigued as it sounded like something certainly interesting and new to try. I figured we would at the very least get some great pictures in these caves to share on social media. So, to my family’s surprise I enthusiastically stated “I’m in!” It had rained the night before, but I truly thought nothing of it. I understood we were going to be inside the caves anyway, so it wouldn’t really matter. Would it? Well here is where the story gets REAL interesting! Yes, there were caves to explore, but to access them you had to navigate some of the most treacherous, rocky, uncleared terrain known to man. Top that off with the fact that it had rained, and it was also incredibly slippery in so many spots. I was clearly UNPREPARED! Ironically, I had worn a shirt that said "It's a good day to read a book." Trust me, I was so wishing I had chose that option. This was NOT what I or my family had anticipated. We were already knee deep in the hoopla when we came to the realization that conquering these cave trails would be no easy feat. At first I decided I would bow out and wait in a cave and let the others go ahead. I am telling ya, I was terrified. The others were not having it. They had an "all for one and one for all and no man (or woman) would be left behind mentality" on this ordeal and I loved them for it. Through this experience, my husband teased me about the great blog material I was gathering and he was absolutely right. You know me by now, and as always, I figured there’s GOT to be a life lesson in this that goes beyond doing your research first before going on any cave adventures! Here is what I gleaned from my ordeal on the slippery slopes of the cave exploration that you and I can apply to our daily lives. Life is unpredictable The rugged path. Photo: Little Lessons Learned by Dana Just like the way the cave adventure unfolded, life is very unpredictable. We may have our ideas of how things will be, yet many unexpected turns, twists and obstacles can come our way. In these stressful times we could choose to bail out in fear like I wanted to or press on in faith with courage. I encourage you to choose option B. Press on my friend. YOU CAN DO IT! Others are there for you  Phil helping me, step by step. Photo: Little Lessons Learned by Dana I could not have completed this hike without my family and especially my husband Phil. He stayed behind and held my hand, leading the way step by step and encouraging me all the way. I was so thankful for his strength, patience and compassion towards me on this very unique and memorable day. We are all in this together Find your people. Photo: Little Lessons Learned by Dana Life is a roller coaster ride at times, but it is meant to be shared. We were all going through this dangerous hike together and we were truly there for each other. At one point we got lost on the trail, but together we figured it out. We all had a mutual goal of completing the trail and getting back to the safety of the nearby parking lot. We knew we would truly have a story to tell, so we were committed to seeing it through. Life is like that too. Look around you. Many people are going through the same struggles as you and they can be a wonderful source of comfort and strength for you as you go through tough times as well. They truly understand as they have navigated the rugged trail ahead of you and they will support you with open arms. Take good advice Others help you along the way, Photo: Little Lessons Learned by Dana My kids and our friend Rick were further ahead. They made the difficult decisions of which paths to take and would call out with great wisdom paths to avoid and the slippery spots and pitfalls of the precarious path. Those that have walked the treacherous paths ahead of you, have great advice to share. It may be what to do or perhaps what NOT to do, but their insights are so extremely valuable to those who are not experienced in this type of trial. Listen to them. They have great advice to share. When life is hard, there is still beauty My husband Phil and I. Photo: Little Lessons Learned by Dana As scary as the path was, it was impossible to disregard the beauty all around us. There were gorgeous forests, beautiful skies, spacious caves and incredible rocky landscapes. As nervous as I was, I often stopped to take pictures as I KNEW this was a journey I never wanted to forget. These photos would be a lasting reminder of a very noteworthy day. Despite being WAY out of my comfort zone, there were lots of smiles and memorable moments amongst the stress we dealt with. No trial lasts forever WE DID IT! Photo: Little Lessons Learned by Dana I was never so glad when my kids called out and said “I see the parking lot!” It was like water in the desert. We did it! We had overcome! It reminded me that we should never lose faith when going through tough times because they are temporary. With a positive attitude, courage, and good people by your side, your test can become your testimony in the end. So my cave story has a happy ending after all. I was proud of myself and all that was learned on a deeper level that day. Until next time, Dana Psalms 32:8 ~ I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. Little Lesson Learned: Don't let the fear of a new experience, overshadow the thrill of completing something amazing. Copyright: © 2024, littlelessonslearnedbydana
Tags: summer vacation, overcoming fear, new adventures, Bruce pennisula, family fun, personal growth, believe in yourself, taking risks Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko “Lord, keep me in the moment. Help me live with my eyes wide open. `Cause I don't wanna miss what you have for me. ~ Jeremy Camp I found myself crying in Mcdonald's last week. It was supposed be just like any other coffee run. I had my code in hand. I was ready to get my points and about to get on the road for a fun weekend getaway with my husband. As I approached the counter, everything changed, however. You see the "customers" right in front of me couldn't help but get my undivided attention. There they were, the most adorable brother and sister duo, proudly placing their order for "2 waters." Their beautiful mom was beaming, watching them closely, and protectively from the side. They had their meal but wanted to order something on their own. Instantly I was swept back in time and there Tyler, age 7, and Shannon, age 5, stood in front of me. They even resembled them. It was uncanny. A wave of nostalgia and sadness engulfed me. The tears unexpectedly flowed behind my dark sunglasses. I had a moment that my mom often described as an "I miss my little people" moment. Have you ever experienced this? I am sure I am not alone. My kids are adults now. They are 28 and 26. Despite my mistakes along the way, they are two of the best humans out there. I am so blessed to have them in my life. Even so, there are just those moments that come up from time to time that get me right in the heart. I miss their little voices, their chubby, little hands in mine and their bedtime giggles and cuddles. Can you relate?  When Ty and Shannon were a baby and toddler, I wrote a poem which was entitled “Someday.” It was my first publication, and I was so proud. In this raw and honest poem, I talked of all the things that annoyed me at this stage like wishing I could: get a solid night’s sleep, shower without an audience, and watch Oprah instead of Barney. I realized too however, that there was so much I would also miss about that stage as well though like: infectious baby giggles, seeing the world through a child’s eyes and bedtime prayers for Goliath and the Teletubbies. I never wanted to wish this stage away, as hard as it might have been at the time. Everyone tells you to appreciate it all and since I became a mom, I know it is so true. Kids grow up way too fast! I felt like I blinked, and now my kids are adults.  Photo by Cup of Couple There can be many tough times and circumstances that come into our lives at so many stages. Life can be just plain hard sometimes. We struggle. We wish that our circumstances would change overnight. We don't know how much more we can take at times. During the tough times I have prayed that God would step in and change my circumstances time and time again, but that is not guaranteed. I have felt like I was in the waiting room and wondering like Rapunzel from the movie Tangled, when will my life begin? Many of us struggle to "stay in the moment" because we don’t like where we are right now. Many of us are facing big struggles, challenges and heartaches. We become overwhelmed and so weary of it all. If we have an attitude of what can be learned from our current circumstances whatever they may be, we can usually see that there have been some positives that have come from these times. When you stay in the moment with your heart open, you can see them. You Got This Photo by Prateek Katyal I have been teaching for 20 years. Retirement is fast approaching. It is so easy to look ahead and wish the time away. It is a challenging career and has changed so much recently. The needs of kids are so much more complex these days and the job of a teacher is truly not what it used to be. Rather than fantasize about leaving the profession on my worst days, I am working on reframing my thoughts to focus on the here and now. Who can I encourage right now? What good can I do each day? There is still work for me to do to impact this school community. The door will close on this chapter of my life soon enough, but not just yet. I want to enjoy it and make a difference where I am, while I still can. I encourage you to do the same when possible, with whatever stage of life you are in.  Everything is for a seasonThere is a season for everything in your life. Some seasons are amazing. Woo-hoo! You are overflowing with joy and fulfillment. This may be you. Some seasons are stressful, very difficult and we wonder how we can even get out of bed. This may be you. Please know that these times of hardship will not last and with God, his mercies are new every morning. He will give you the strength you need to make it through even your darkest of days. Whether something is an ordeal or adventure is up to you. We can so easily wish times away, but I encourage you to ask God to keep you in the moment. It is in some of our hardest times, that God reveals himself the most. It may be hard to believe as well, but the very things you dread today, surprisingly may be what you end up missing the most later on. Life is funny that way. Stay strong my friend. You got this and I am standing with you. Until next time, Dana Psalms 118:24: This is the day the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it. Little Lesson Learned: Those with open hearts see things that others miss.
Tags: patience, endurance, parenting, strength in trials, life lessonsCopyright: © 2024 littlelessonslearnedbydana, 2nd edition, 2021 first edition
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